MESA, AZ — A tragic crash involving a stolen truck left two adults and a child dead Monday morning in Mesa.
Police say the incident began just before 8 a.m., when a Ford F250 was stolen in Gilbert. The stolen vehicle was later involved in a head-on collision near Val Vista Drive and Southern Avenue in Mesa.
According to investigators, the truck was traveling northbound on Val Vista Drive when it veered left of center and crashed into a Nissan Armada. A third vehicle was also involved in the collision.
The 29-year-old driver of the stolen truck was killed at the scene. His identity has not yet been released.
The driver of the Nissan Armada, 42-year-old Troy Garlock, also died at the scene. Two children were in the back seat of his vehicle. Both were transported to the hospital, where an 8-year-old girl, Elsie, later died. A 6-year-old girl remains hospitalized.
The driver of the third vehicle sustained minor injuries and did not require medical treatment.
Investigation and Family Statement
Police say speed was a factor in the crash. No charges will be filed, as the driver of the stolen truck was killed in the incident.
Troy’s sister-in-law, Tiffany Garlock, shared a statement remembering him and Elsie:
“Troy was an amazing, dedicated father and stepfather. He just went and saw some of [his] kids in Utah and watched their sports. He was always having fun with them, building Ninja Warrior courses in their backyard. They just bought land in Heber, got a horse and some chickens/goats, and poured the concrete to start building their dream home. Elsie was so fun and spunky. She was a fantastic little dancer and had so much energy.”
The investigation remains ongoing.