TEMPE, Ariz. — With heavy hearts, family, friends, and faith communities are mourning the loss of Kevin Roe, 38, who tragically died following a three-vehicle crash in Tempe early Sunday morning. Authorities confirmed that the accident occurred when a driver ran a red light at the intersection of Rural Road and University Drive, causing a devastating chain reaction.
Kevin, a devoted husband, father, and man of faith, succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital.
The Tragic Crash
According to the Tempe Police Department, the crash unfolded when a driver—later arrested for driving under the influence—sped through a red light and struck another vehicle. The impact forced a third car, which had a green light, to collide as well.
The out-of-control vehicle then crashed into the Einstein Bros. Bagels nearby. Three people were transported to the hospital, but tragically, Kevin Roe did not survive.
Police confirmed the suspected impaired driver was taken into custody, and charges are pending.
A Man of Faith, Family, and Service
For those who knew him best, Kevin Roe was more than the victim of a tragic crash—he was a shining light. A dedicated husband to Lola and loving father to their baby daughter Phoebe, Kevin built his life around his faith and his family.
Friends describe him as a man who lived with purpose, pouring his energy into loving God, serving others, and creating lasting memories with those he cherished. Kevin also spearheaded cruise mission trips, an extension of his heart for service and outreach.
“He loved God, loved people, and deeply loved his family,” a close friend shared. “He worked tirelessly, even driving for Uber as a second job, just to provide for Lola and Phoebe and support the ministry opportunities he cared so much about.”
A Community Rallies in Support
In the wake of this tragedy, Kevin’s family has received an outpouring of support from their church, friends, and the wider Tempe community. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with immediate needs, including medical bills, funeral arrangements, and living expenses for Lola and Phoebe. Kevin was the sole provider for his young family, making this support essential.
🔗 Donate to support the Roe family on GoFundMe
Additionally, a Meal Train has been set up to provide meals, household help, and childcare assistance for Lola and baby Phoebe.
🔗 Sign up to help through the Meal Train
Local community members are also organizing volunteers for household support and mother’s helpers in the weeks ahead.
Remembering Kevin Roe
The death of Kevin Roe has left an unfillable void in the lives of his loved ones. To his friends and fellow church members, he will always be remembered for his warm smile, his willingness to help, and his deep commitment to faith and family.
“This is such a devastating loss,” said one family friend. “Kevin’s life was a testimony of love and service. We will carry his memory in our hearts, and we will do everything we can to support Lola and Phoebe through this.”
As the community mourns, there is a shared resolve to ensure Kevin’s legacy of love, service, and faith continues to inspire others.