Tragic Loss in Phoenix: Haley Kramer Killed by Wrong-Way Driver With Dementia, Leaving Behind Young Children Addison and Carson
PHOENIX, ARIZONA — A devastating car crash in Phoenix on Sunday has claimed the life of Haley Kramer, a 29-year-old mother of two, leaving her family and community heartbroken. Haley, described as a devoted daughter and an extraordinary mother, was killed in a head-on collision caused by an elderly driver suffering from dementia who was traveling on the wrong side of the road.
According to the Phoenix Police Department, emergency crews responded to the scene shortly after the collision. Despite immediate medical attention, Haley tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Authorities confirmed that manslaughter charges are pending as they conduct a full criminal investigation into the elderly man’s fitness to drive and the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The driver’s name has not yet been released publicly. However, investigators have indicated that his family had reportedly been concerned about his declining mental health. Police are now reviewing whether preventative action could or should have been taken to keep him off the road.
“It’s a tragedy that should never have happened,” said one police official. “This loss has shaken the entire community.”
Haley Kramer, a lifelong resident of Phoenix, Arizona, leaves behind her two young children, Addison, age 3, and Carson, just 1 year old. They were not in the vehicle at the time of the accident.
In a heartbreaking statement, Haley’s family described her as a radiant and loving person whose life revolved around her children.
“Haley was remarkable. She was loving, giving, kind, and generous,” the family shared. “She had a big heart and was strong, smart, and courageous. She was a good mom—no, change that—she was a GREAT mom. We were so proud of her. She loved her children, and they loved her. They made her life complete.”
The loss of Haley has reverberated throughout the Phoenix community, where friends, neighbors, and strangers alike have expressed their condolences and shared memories of her strength, warmth, and joyful spirit.
In her honor, a candlelight vigil will be held on Wednesday, June 5, at 7:00 p.m. at Cactus Park, where community members will gather to reflect, remember, and show support for the grieving family. Attendees are encouraged to bring candles and wear pink—Haley’s favorite color.
A memorial service is planned for Thursday, June 13, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., with the location to be confirmed soon.
As her children face a future without their mother’s love and guidance, the family is working to establish a trust fund to support Addison and Carson’s long-term care, education, and emotional needs.
The Kramer family is also urging lawmakers and public health officials to consider reforms regarding elderly drivers, particularly those with known cognitive decline.
“No family should have to bury their daughter because of a failure in oversight,” the family said. “We don’t want another parent, child, or loved one to suffer this kind of preventable loss.”
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to dementia advocacy groups or traffic safety nonprofits in Haley’s name.
Haley Kramer’s story is a painful reminder of how fleeting life can be—and how one beautiful life can leave an unshakable mark on so many others. Her light lives on in her children, in the love of her family, and in the hearts of all who knew her.
Rest in peace, Haley. Your memory will be treasured forever.