A tragic crash on Interstate 10 has left a community shattered and a family devastated. On the evening of June 1, a collision involving multiple vehicles near milepost 257 in the westbound lanes claimed the lives of 42-year-old Stephanie Marie Codina and her 11-year-old son, Antonio “Daddio” Codina, both of Tucson.
According to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the chain-reaction crash began when a vehicle involved in a prior non-injury incident remained partially blocking the #1 lane.
A second vehicle, which had stopped on the median shoulder to assist, was struck from behind by a commercial truck that first collided with the initial vehicle before veering onto the shoulder.
Stephanie and her son were passengers in that second vehicle. Though the driver had exited the car and was uninjured, the impact tragically killed both mother and son.
Tucson Fire personnel pronounced them dead at the scene. Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing as they work to determine the precise circumstances that led to the deadly accident.
Stephanie, affectionately known as “Steph,” was described as the “girliest boy mom”—a title she carried proudly as the loving mother of three sons. Her family was her world, and she poured every ounce of herself into nurturing and supporting them. Those closest to her remember her deep faith, her infectious energy, and her unwavering devotion to her husband, Tony, and their children.
“Being a mother was Stephanie’s greatest joy,” one family member shared. “She and Tony built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith. Their bond was undeniable, and her boys adored her beyond measure.”
Just weeks before the crash, Antonio known by those closest to him as “Daddio”—had celebrated his 11th birthday. Though the milestone came during a difficult time, it was one he embraced with his trademark courage and gratitude. Diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia earlier this year, Daddio had fought his illness with a brave heart and quiet resilience, never losing his gentle smile or loving spirit.
“He had a soft voice, a laugh that could light up a room, and a kindness well beyond his years,” a relative said. “He was the baby of the familya tough mama’s boy who was all heart.”
Despite the challenges of his diagnosis, Antonio was eager to return to school and rejoin his friends and football teammates in August. His determination, even in the face of adversity, was a testament to the strength and love that defined the Codina family.
The crash has left Stephanie’s husband, Tony, and their sons, Isaias “Cito” and Jonah, grappling with unimaginable grief. The family, once vibrant and complete, is now navigating an uncertain path forward without the guiding light of their beloved wife, mother, and youngest son.
