TUCSON, AZ — The University of Arizona (U of A) community is mourning the tragic loss of two students, Sophia Troetel and Josiah Santos, who were killed in a hit-and-run accident on the night of October 30, 2025, at the intersection of Euclid Avenue and 2nd Street. A third student was seriously injured in the incident. The Tucson Police Department (TPD) has confirmed that the 19-year-old driver responsible for the crash has been detained, and authorities are expected to release further details in the coming hours.
The Tragic Collision:
At approximately 9:30 p.m. on October 30, 2025, emergency responders arrived at the scene of a hit-and-run crash at Euclid Avenue and 2nd Street. Authorities say the victims were walking when they were struck by a vehicle that failed to stop after the collision. Sophia Troetel, a junior studying biological sciences, and Josiah Santos, a sophomore in engineering, were both pronounced dead at the scene. A third student, whose name has not yet been released, sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital in critical condition.
Tucson Police reported that the vehicle involved in the crash was a sedan that fled the scene immediately after hitting the students. Investigators began working quickly to identify the driver, leading to the detention of a 19-year-old male. TPD officials have confirmed that the driver is currently in custody, and a formal news release with more details is expected shortly.
University of Arizona Statement:
In response to the tragedy, the University of Arizona released a statement expressing deep sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families, friends, and the entire campus community:
“The University of Arizona community is deeply saddened by the collision that tragically claimed the lives of two of our students, Sophia Troetel and Josiah Santos, and seriously injured another. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and all grieving those who lost their lives and our support to the injured student and their loved ones. The university is providing direct support and resources to students, faculty, and staff affected by this tragic event.”
The statement also reassured students and staff that counseling services and grief support are available to help those impacted by this senseless loss.
Who Were Sophia and Josiah?
Both Sophia Troetel and Josiah Santos were well-known and beloved members of the University of Arizona community. Sophia, who hailed from Phoenix, was known for her dedication to her studies and her passion for helping others. As a biology major, she had plans to pursue a career in healthcare and was a member of the pre-medical society on campus. Her professors described her as hardworking and compassionate, with a promising future ahead of her.
Josiah Santos, a native of Tucson, was a talented student in the engineering program and an active member of the university’s robotics club. Known for his innovative ideas and his deep curiosity about technology, Josiah was admired by his peers and faculty for his dedication to learning and his eagerness to collaborate on research projects. Friends and classmates have spoken fondly of his warm personality and positive attitude.
Both students were also involved in community outreach programs and volunteer work, reflecting their strong commitment to improving the world around them.
The Impact on the U of A Community:
The loss of these two young lives has sent shockwaves through the University of Arizona campus, where friends, classmates, and faculty members are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy. The university’s Dean of Students and campus counseling services have been working tirelessly to support grieving individuals in the wake of this devastating event.
In addition to providing emotional support to those affected, the university has also set up memorial events and candlelight vigils to honor the lives of Sophia and Josiah. The campus has come together to mourn their loss and show solidarity with their families.
Tucson Police Investigation:
Tucson Police are continuing to investigate the events surrounding the hit-and-run and the circumstances that led to the collision. Authorities have confirmed that the driver, identified as a 19-year-old male, was detained shortly after the crash, and a formal investigation is underway. TPD has not released the driver’s name, but they have assured the public that the investigation will continue as they gather more evidence.
Witnesses to the crash, as well as anyone with additional information about the incident, are encouraged to come forward and contact the Tucson Police Department. Officers are also reviewing available surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras to piece together the moments leading up to the crash.
Community Remembers:
The tragic deaths of Sophia and Josiah serve as a painful reminder of the dangers that can occur on our streets. The community, especially at the University of Arizona, has rallied around the victims’ families, offering support and comfort in this incredibly difficult time.
Local businesses, student organizations, and the university itself are planning memorials and tributes to honor the memory of these two students, whose lives were cut tragically short. Many students and faculty have expressed a shared sense of grief and disbelief, with many speaking about how the victims’ warm hearts and dedication to their work inspired those around them.
Final Thoughts:
As the investigation continues and more details are released, the University of Arizona community remains united in the face of this devastating loss. The memory of Sophia Troetel and Josiah Santos will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew them, and their untimely deaths have left an indelible mark on the campus they loved so dearly.
Our thoughts are with their families, friends, and all those affected by this tragic accident. We extend our deepest condolences to the victims’ loved ones, and we hope for the swift recovery of the injured student.
Contact Information:
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the Tucson Police Department at (520) 791-4444 or the silent witness line at (520) 88-CRIME.
Memorial Contributions:
In honor of Sophia and Josiah, memorial funds or scholarship donations may be made through the University of Arizona or other community-based organizations that support students and families in times of need.
This heartbreaking event has left a void in the hearts of many, but the memories of Sophia and Josiah will continue to inspire those who knew them.
