Phoenix Police Arrest Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run
Authorities apprehended 53-year-old Nivyabandi Augustin for a deadly collision involving a 64-year-old pedestrian.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Property Crime
Phoenix police have arrested 53-year-old Nivyabandi Augustin in connection with a fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of a 64-year-old pedestrian. The incident occurred near Indian School Road and 32nd Avenue.
Why it matters
The arrest follows a thorough investigation by local detectives who utilized automated license plate recognition technology to identify the suspect. The incident highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to resolve cases involving multiple fleeing drivers.
Nivyabandi Augustin is currently held on a $75,000 bond following his arrest for a class 3 felony charge of hit-and-run with death. Investigators are continuing to review evidence related to the case.
The players
Nivyabandi Augustin
The 53-year-old suspect is facing a class 3 felony charge for his alleged involvement in the hit-and-run.
Phoenix Police Department
The local agency responsible for investigating the fatal collision and managing the criminal case.
The details
The victim was struck by two vehicles at 6:30 p.m. and later died after being transported to a hospital. Detectives utilized data from license plate reader cameras to track and apprehend the suspect.
Timeline
The pedestrian was struck on October 23, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
Nivyabandi Augustin was arrested by Phoenix police on October 27, 2026.
The arrest was publicly announced on October 29, 2026.
Legal Context
The charges filed against the suspect follow the sentencing and classification guidelines established by the Arizona Revised Statutes regarding hit-and-run with death. This prosecution reflects the state's stringent enforcement policies concerning vehicular accidents involving fleeing drivers.
Residents near Indian School Road and 32nd Avenue may see continued investigative activity as police finalize the case against the suspect. This arrest serves as a reminder of the heightened surveillance measures currently in place to identify vehicles involved in local traffic incidents.
The takeaway
Authorities emphasize that the use of automated license plate recognition was vital in identifying the suspect in this fatal incident. Drivers involved in accidents are legally obligated to remain at the scene and render assistance to those injured.
Further reading
Learn more about local public safety trends on the Phoenix Property Crime section page.
