Fatal hit-and-run driver caught in Tucson after crash death | Top Stories

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – A tragic hit-and-run collision on East 22nd Street has claimed the life of a pedestrian. On January 6, Brallan Alberto Nidez Guzman, 30, was struck by a vehicle in the early morning hours and later succumbed to his injuries.

The Tucson Fire Department responded promptly to the scene, transporting Guzman to St. Joseph’s Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Unfortunately, the vehicle involved fled, leaving detectives to piece together the incident through witness interviews, roadway evidence, and video surveillance.

Guzman reportedly entered the roadway from the south side of 22nd Street, approximately 25 feet from a HAWK pedestrian crossing. He was struck in the center lane of eastbound 22nd Street.

On January 10, detectives located the suspect driver, 57-year-old James Anthony Badia. He was arrested and booked into Pima County Jail on a felony charge of Failure to Stop for Accident Involving Death or Serious Physical Injury.

The Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner confirmed on January 17 that Guzman had died from his injuries. His family has been notified.

Authorities identified Guzman’s presence in the roadway as the major contributing factor in the collision. The investigation into the incident continues as the community mourns the loss.