TUCSON, AZ — A heartbreaking crash on Interstate 10 in Tucson has claimed the lives of a devoted mother and her young son, leaving their community in mourning and honoring the memory of two compassionate souls.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety has confirmed that 42-year-old Stephanie Marie Codina and her 11-year-old son were tragically killed in a fatal collision that occurred Sunday night, June 1, 2025.
According to officials, the crash took place around 8:30 p.m. in the westbound lanes of I-10 near the Speedway Boulevard exit. Stephanie and her son were inside a vehicle parked on the median shoulder after a nearby minor accident. The driver of their vehicle had pulled over to assist at the scene of that earlier crash and had exited the car just before the tragedy occurred.
Moments later, a commercial vehicle veered into the emergency lane and struck the parked car where Stephanie and her son remained seated. The impact of the collision was catastrophic. Emergency crews responded quickly, but due to the severity of the crash, both were pronounced dead at the scene.
The exact relationship between Stephanie, her son, and the driver who exited the vehicle remains under investigation, and authorities have not yet released further details. For now, the community is focused on mourning the lives lost and supporting those left behind.
Stephanie Codina was remembered by those who knew her as warmhearted, generous, and driven by compassion. Loved ones say she was always ready to help others, a quality that may have placed her in harm’s way that evening.
Her son, only 11, was described as intelligent, curious, and full of life. He was deeply connected to his mother, and their close bond was evident to all who knew them. He loved learning, sports, and brought joy to those around him.
The loss of both lives has sent shockwaves through the community. Grief counselors are being made available at local schools, and friends, neighbors, and loved ones are coming together to offer condolences and support. Vigils and memorials are being planned to celebrate the lives of Stephanie and her son.
Authorities continue to investigate what caused the commercial vehicle to enter the emergency lane. No other injuries were reported, and no arrests or citations have been announced as of Tuesday afternoon. Officials have asked anyone with information or who witnessed the crash to come forward.
In what began as an act of compassion, an unthinkable tragedy unfolded. As the community grieves, they also remember a mother and son whose kindness, love, and spirit will never be forgotten.
Stephanie Marie Codina and her son leave behind a legacy of love and selflessness. They will be deeply missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew them.
