A Democratic candidate for an Arizona Senate seat was killed in a DUI crash in Tucson on Friday, police confirmed.

John McLean, 68, died after Michael Martin Creel, 27, allegedly ignored a stop sign and struck his vehicle, Tucson police said. Creel is being held in the Pima County Jail for manslaughter and aggravated DUI charges.

McLean died at the scene and police determined that speed and impairment were known factors in the fatal crash.

According to court documents obtained by local outlet 13 News, a DUI case against Creel was dismissed in December 2023.

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Arizona Senate Democrats also confirmed McLean’s death.

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“We are heartbroken to hear about the passing of LD17 Senate candidate John McLean. He spent his final days fighting for a better Arizona and we couldn’t be more grateful for his work and dedication to our great state,” the group said in a statement. at X. “We extend our deepest condolences to John’s family and loved ones.”

McLean ran against Republican Vince Leach for the District 17 seat in the Arizona Senate. Leach also released a statement and sent his condolences to McLean’s family and friends.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the McLean family for their tragic loss today,” Leach said. “John was a good man who conducted himself honorably as a candidate. My deepest condolences go out to John’s family and friends at this most difficult time.”

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Leach led McLean by more than 3,000 votes when the election results were announced Friday afternoon. McLean, a first-time candidate, had abandoned the race less than 24 hours before the crash.

“It was an honor and privilege to run for the LD17 Senate seat. While the outcome is not what we had hoped for, I am proud of the work that so many people put into our campaign,” McLean wrote. in part on his campaign’s Facebook page.

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State Sen. Mitzi Epstein offered her condolences in a statement after saying she had just spoken with McLean on Monday.

“I just spoke with John on Monday this week. His optimism for the people of Arizona never wavered. He went above and beyond in volunteer work that required long hours every day, and he brought a smile and thoughtful words to every door. My heart is with his family,” Epstein wrote in a post on X.

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs also paid tribute to McLean, saying he was a “true public servant” and calling his death a “tragic loss.”

“John was a true public servant who cared deeply about Arizona. He always wanted to do what was best for his community, and that is why he will be remembered. This is a tragic loss, and my heart breaks for his family and loved ones. Sending all my love to those who knew him,” Hobbs wrote in a post on X.

Police say the investigation into the fatal accident is still ongoing.

Original article source: Arizona Senate Candidate John McLean Killed in Suspected DUI Crash: ‘Real Civil Servant’