Tucson Community Mourns Colette Mukankaka and Donatille Nyiramugwera Killed in Crosswalk Crash

 Two women, Colette Mukankaka and Donatille Nyiramugwera, were killed in a Tucson crosswalk collision. Police say failure to yield was a key factor.

The community of Tucson is mourning the tragic loss of Colette Mukankaka, 71, and Donatille Nyiramugwera, 60, who were killed in a devastating pedestrian crash on the evening of March 19, 2026.

According to the Tucson Police Department, the incident occurred around 6:20 p.m. at the intersection of East 29th Street and South Rosemont Avenue. Authorities confirmed that both women were crossing from north to south in a marked crosswalk equipped with a HAWK (High-Intensity Activated Crosswalk) beacon, which had been activated at the time.

Investigators reported that the pedestrians were struck by a westbound silver 2008 Acura MDX traveling in the curb lane. Emergency crews from the Tucson Fire Department responded promptly, but both victims were sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials stated that the 65-year-old driver remained at the scene and showed no signs of impairment. The primary cause of the crash has been identified as failure to yield to pedestrians in a marked crosswalk. The driver has since been charged with causing death under an applicable Title 28 moving violation, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The deaths of Mukankaka and Nyiramugwera have left a profound impact on their families, friends, and the wider Tucson community. As loved ones grieve this heartbreaking loss, they also remember and celebrate the lives, legacies, and connections the two women shared.

Funeral arrangements and memorial service details are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.