Police: Woman shot in the head on State Route 51

PHOENIX (KSAZ) - Authorities say a woman was shot while driving in the northbound lanes on State Route 51.

This all happened at approximately 7:20 p.m. between McDowell and Thomas on Wednesday. Police tell us the woman was traveling from the westbound lanes on Interstate 10 and transferring to the 51 northbound when she called 9-1-1 to report a truck following her that was driving erratically.

"One of those calls was from an adult woman who stated that the truck was actually chasing her. While she was on the phone with 9-1-1, the dispatcher heard about three gunshots and the call was ended. DPS officers and Phoenix officers responded to the scene and located an adult woman who had crashed her car in the center divider along the HOV lane in between McDowell Road and Thomas Road. She was taken to a local hospital in critical condition and unfortunately has since died from her injuries," said Sgt. Jonathan Howard.

Police continue to search for a white work-type truck with ladder racks and a toolbox on it. They say from descriptions the woman was able to give them, there were three Hispanic males in the truck.

Authorities believe that truck may have exited the 51 near Thomas Road.

"Officers found four other vehicles that were involved in minor collisions related to the shooting. Two occupants of those vehicles were taken to local hospitals with minor injuries," stated Howard.

Police have identified the victim as 49-year-old Dinya Farmer.

The northbound lanes of State Route 51 from the I-10 Mini-Stack to Thomas Road were reopened early Thursday morning.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call the Phoenix Police Department at -602-262-6151 or Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS.

You can remain anonymous and receive a cash award for tips leading to an arrest or indictment.