Fatal Crash Investigation on Highway 90 in Benson

BENSON, Ariz. (SVL)— A tragic head-on collision on Highway 90 early Saturday morning has claimed the lives of two individuals after a motorcycle traveling the wrong way struck an oncoming vehicle near milepost 293.

According to officials, the crash occurred on June 21, 2025, at approximately 2:20 a.m., after dispatchers were alerted to a motorcycle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes. U.S. Border Patrol reported that the motorcycle had passed by the Highway 90 checkpoint at a high rate of speed traveling northbound in the southbound lanes. Agents attempted to catch up to the rider while coordinating with Cochise County Sheriff’s Office and Benson Police.

Moments later, the motorcycle collided head-on with a Chrysler Sebring convertible, driven by 17-year-old Mia Hirsch of Sierra Vista. Both the rider and the driver of the Sebring, were pronounced dead at the scene.

The rider of the motorcycle has been identified as Theodore Simon III, 35, of Mescal, AZ. Police say alcohol is believed to be a contributing factor in the crash.

Mia had just completed her junior year at Buena High School and was working a job at a local food establishment. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for Wednesday, June 25, at Veterans Memorial Park in Sierra Vista.