By Jon Johnson
GRAHAM COUNTY — A tragic single-vehicle accident involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) claimed the life of 19-year-old Jacob Parr in the early hours of Tuesday, Jan. 6.
The incident occurred shortly after 1:17 a.m. at the intersection of North 8th Avenue and West Reclamation Way, between the Pepsi Plant and the 8th Avenue Bridge — near the turnoff to the Safford sewer treatment plant.
Emergency dispatch logs indicate that Parr wrecked his ATV on or near the bridge structure. First responders received initial reports describing the victim as breathing but suffering from severe injuries, including bleeding from the nose and mouth, and possible head trauma. The vehicle was reported with hazard lights activated south of the bridge.
Despite lifesaving efforts, Parr was pronounced dead at 1:52 a.m., according to on-scene updates.
The roadway, which had been closed during the investigation and response, was reopened to traffic at approximately 4:43 a.m.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the Graham County Sheriff’s Office and DPS. Graham County Sheriff P.J. Allred confirmed the victim as Jacob Parr and said that no details are known regarding potential factors such as alcohol involvement, and the investigation is ongoing.
Sheriff Allred described the crash as “a bum deal,” highlighting the cold conditions that night and the late hour, noting that riding an ATV at that time would require a very good reason.
