In a tragic turn of events that has sent shockwaves through Arizona's political landscape, Democratic Senate nominee John McLean was killed in a vehicle crash early Friday morning. The Tucson Police Department reported that McLean's car was hit by another vehicle, driven by 27-year-old Michael Martin Creel, who was found to be under the influence at the time of the accident. Creel has since been charged with manslaughter and DUI and is being held in Pima County.
The accident occurs amidst a closely watched electoral battle where McLean was contesting against former Republican Sen. Vince Leach for Arizona’s 17th Legislative District seat. With 98% of the votes counted, Leach is leading by approximately 3,000 votes, though official results have yet to be announced by the Associated Press.
Following the news of McLean's untimely demise, Vince Leach issued a statement expressing his condolences. "My thoughts and prayers are with the McLean family for their tragic loss today," he said. "John was a good man who conducted himself honorably as a candidate. My deepest condolences go out to John's family and friends in this most difficult time."
The loss of McLean has prompted an outpouring of grief and statements from various political groups within Arizona. The Arizona House Democrats described him as "a nice, decent and hard-working man," extending their deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Similarly, the Arizona Senate Democrats expressed their heartbreak over McLean’s passing, praising his dedication to fighting for a better Arizona in his final days.
"John was struck by an impaired driver who ran a stop sign in Tucson, Arizona," they noted in their statement while thanking first responders for their efforts at the scene. They also highlighted the importance of awareness regarding the deadly impacts of impaired driving.
McLean's death marks not only a personal loss to his family and friends but also leaves a void in Arizona's political scene where he was remembered as someone dedicated to public service and making positive changes within the community. His commitment to improving lives in Arizona will be sorely missed as constituents mourn the loss of what many saw as a promising leader dedicated to their welfare.
The accident occurs amidst a closely watched electoral battle where McLean was contesting against former Republican Sen. Vince Leach for Arizona’s 17th Legislative District seat. With 98% of the votes counted, Leach is leading by approximately 3,000 votes, though official results have yet to be announced by the Associated Press.
Following the news of McLean's untimely demise, Vince Leach issued a statement expressing his condolences. "My thoughts and prayers are with the McLean family for their tragic loss today," he said. "John was a good man who conducted himself honorably as a candidate. My deepest condolences go out to John's family and friends in this most difficult time."
The loss of McLean has prompted an outpouring of grief and statements from various political groups within Arizona. The Arizona House Democrats described him as "a nice, decent and hard-working man," extending their deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Similarly, the Arizona Senate Democrats expressed their heartbreak over McLean’s passing, praising his dedication to fighting for a better Arizona in his final days.
"John was struck by an impaired driver who ran a stop sign in Tucson, Arizona," they noted in their statement while thanking first responders for their efforts at the scene. They also highlighted the importance of awareness regarding the deadly impacts of impaired driving.
McLean's death marks not only a personal loss to his family and friends but also leaves a void in Arizona's political scene where he was remembered as someone dedicated to public service and making positive changes within the community. His commitment to improving lives in Arizona will be sorely missed as constituents mourn the loss of what many saw as a promising leader dedicated to their welfare.
