Arizona Senate Candidate John McLean Killed in Car Accident

Arizona Senate candidate John McLean was tragically killed in a car accident early Friday morning in Tucson, Arizona. McLean, a 68-year-old Democrat, had recently run for the state Senate in District 17 but lost the election to Republican Vince Leach by about 3,000 votes.

The accident occurred on Broadway Boulevard, east of North Houghton Road, around 6 a.m. when McLean’s vehicle was struck by another car. According to the Tucson Police Department, the other driver, 27-year-old Michael Martin Creel, failed to stop at a stop sign on Ridgeside Drive and collided with McLean’s vehicle on the passenger side.

McLean was pronounced dead at the scene. Creel, who was not seriously injured, was arrested on charges of manslaughter and aggravated DUI after being assessed for impairment at the scene. The investigation is ongoing, with speed and impairment believed to be key factors in the crash.

John McLean was a third-generation Arizona resident who attended the University of Arizona and graduate school in California. He spent over 33 years in Pima County, where he founded Arete Associates, a business focused on national security technologies. McLean was also dedicated to public service, volunteering and advocating for local causes in education, environmental sustainability, and animal welfare. He served on the boards of four Arizona-based nonprofits.

McLean’s commitment to public service was inspired by his uncle, state Senator Bob Wilcox. His death has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the tragic loss of a dedicated public servant and advocate for various local causes.