Woman Dies after Fatal Collision near Bethany Home Road

PHOENIX, AZ (April 13, 2021) – Saturday afternoon, Mikayla Ballesteros was killed, and Carnell Cunningham was arrested after a fatal crash on 43rd Avenue.

Police responded to the scene around 3:30 p.m., after receiving multiple dispatch calls from witnesses in the area.

Per reports, Ballesteros was assaulted by her boyfriend in the moving vehicle before it ran into a home near Bethany Home Road.

Medics say 23-year-old Ballesteros was found unresponsive inside the vehicle. She was then taken to a nearby hospital in critical condition with at least one gunshot wound. However, due to the extent of her condition she was later pronounced dead.

Witnesses on scene did not allow 37-year-old Cunningham to leave the scene. He was eventually taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Upon his released from the hospital, Cunningham was interviewed and arrested under suspicion of murder and aggravated assault.

Moreover, no one inside the home that was struck sustained injuries.

No additional information has been released at this time.


The attorneys at Sweet James would like to offer their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mikayla Ballesteros during this difficult time.


Losing a loved one in an auto accident can be a traumatic experience for those left behind. Let the wrongful death attorneys at Sweet James help you during this trying time. With 20 years of experience in the field, they know what it takes to help you win your case. Call their offices today at (800) 975-3435 for a free and confidential case evaluation. They are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week through email, text, and online chat. To request a police report, click here.

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