Multiple people injured in crash near Peoria

PEORIA, Ariz. (NBC, KYMA) - Authorities in Arizona are investigating a serious crash that left multiple people injured near Peoria.

Police say the crash happened near Castle Hot Springs and French Creek Roads in Yavapai County, involving a pickup truck and an off-road side-by-side vehicle.

Investigators believe reduced visibility from dust may have contributed to the crash.

According to the Peoria Fire-Medical Department, nine people were hurt. Four are in critical condition, three suffered serious injuries, and two others have minor injuries. Three of those critically injured were airlifted to the hospital.

Fire crews say seven of the victims were teenagers, between 16 and 18-years-old, riding in the UTV. Police add some of those riders were not properly seated at the time of the crash.

The remaining two injured were inside the pickup truck.