An apparent act of road rage has claimed the life of Sonya Coronado, a legal support specialist for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office. Coronado, described as a dedicated employee, died April 24 of injuries suffered after her SUV swerved off the road on Interstate 17 near the Sunset Point rest area on April 10.
Witnesses report Coronado lost control of her car while trying to avoid the aggressive maneuvers of an angry motorist. Sonya subsequently died, at the age of 36, as a result of her injuries.
Sonya was engaged to be married two weeks before the incident and was on her way to meet her fiancé for the weekend.
“We are devastated by the tragic loss of this young woman whose bright spirit touched many hearts and who had so much to look forward to. Our hearts and prayers are with Sonya’s family during this difficult time,” said Maricopa County Attorney Bill Montgomery in a statement released on Monday. “Our grief is deepened by the knowledge that her death may have been the result of a criminal act. My Office will do whatever we can to assist law enforcement in determining the facts and circumstances surrounding this incident and, if necessary, holding accountable whoever may be responsible for what happened in order to obtain justice for Sonya and her family,” he added.
The Department of Public Safety continues to investigate this incident and encourages anyone with information to call (602) 223-2212.
Witnesses reported seeing a silver standard single cab pickup truck driven by a male Caucasian pull alongside Sonya’s silver Toyota SUV and make an obscene hand gesture before driving into her lane in front of her vehicle, causing her take evasive action to avoid being hit. After being forced into the median, Sonya lost control of her vehicle which travelled across the northbound lanes and off the roadway to the east, overturning numerous times. Sonya was transported by helicopter to John C. Lincoln North Mountain and admitted in critical condition with severe brain trauma. She passed away on April 24, 2015.