Litchfield Park, AZ – UPDATE: Man Arrested in Fatal Crash at Camelback Rd & Litchfield Rd

Litchfield Park, AZ (December 16, 2025) – Authorities have arrested a Phoenix man following a head-on crash over the weekend that killed a West Valley woman.

Brayan Velasquez-Huinac, of Phoenix, faces charges in connection with the collision that claimed the life of Julia Poniatowska of Litchfield Park.

The deadly crash occurred early Sunday morning, December 14, near Camelback Rd and Litchfield Rd. Police and fire crews responded just before 1 a.m., finding a car and a pickup truck had collided, with the truck catching fire. Poniatowska was pronounced dead at the scene. Velasquez-Huinac was taken to a hospital for treatment.

Avondale police reported that Velasquez-Huinac was traveling eastbound on Camelback Rd when he crossed the center line and struck the other vehicle head-on. Investigators believe speed and impairment played a role in the crash, though exact details of the vehicles involved have not been released.

After treatment, Velasquez-Huinac was booked into the Maricopa County Jail. He faces felony manslaughter and one misdemeanor count of DUI. Authorities have set his bond at $500,000.

Our thoughts remain with the family of Julia Poniatowska, and we hope for support and strength as they cope with this tragic loss.

Fatal Head-On Crashes in Litchfield Park

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents. In Arizona, these crashes often result in serious injuries or fatalities because the force of impact is much greater than in other collisions. When a crash involves impairment or excessive speed, the risk of death rises dramatically.

In cases like the recent Litchfield Park crash, where a driver crossed the center line and struck another vehicle, the consequences can be devastating. Victims and their families often face not only the emotional trauma of losing a loved one but also the financial burdens of funeral expenses, lost income, and ongoing support needs.

DUI-related crashes are a common factor in fatal collisions across Arizona. Alcohol or drugs impair reaction time, judgment, and coordination, increasing the likelihood of veering into oncoming traffic. Even a momentary lapse in attention or a misjudged turn at high speed can have tragic results. Law enforcement takes these incidents very seriously, often pursuing felony charges when fatalities occur.

For families coping with a wrongful death, navigating the legal system while grieving can be overwhelming. A wrongful death attorney can help survivors understand their rights and options. Legal professionals gather evidence, review police reports, and work with experts to establish fault. They also handle communications with insurance companies, which may try to minimize payouts or assign blame elsewhere.

Compensation in wrongful death cases may cover medical expenses prior to the victim’s death, funeral costs, loss of income, and emotional suffering. Attorneys aim to ensure that families receive the resources needed to move forward after a tragedy. Each case is unique, and timely legal action is crucial to preserve evidence and witness testimony.

If your family has been affected by a fatal crash, help is available. Please call our team at (866) 932-4817 for a free consultation with National Injury Help. We support crash victims and their families through the recovery process and handle complex cases, including those involving impaired driving and multi-vehicle collisions. You do not have to face this alone. Our attorneys investigate the facts, gather evidence, and help you build a case that reflects your losses. We are here to assist you in pursuing fair compensation for your loved one. Contact us today to have your case reviewed by our trusted legal team.