Taos County sergeant killed in motorcycle crash while searching for driver

TAOS COUNTY, NM – New Mexico State Police are investigating a motorcycle crash that claimed the life of a Taos County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) sergeant on Friday night, the Santa Fe New Mexican reported.

According to State Police, deputies with the TCSO were attempting to locate a reckless driver on State Road 518 who was believed to have turned onto a dirt driveway near the 7200 block of State Road 518.

During the attempt to enter the driveway, a TCSO Deputy who was driving a marked police pickup truck initiated a left turn into the drive. At the same time, TCSO Sergeant Joseph Apodaca, who was operating his department-issued police motorcycle, collided with the driver’s side of the deputy’s pickup truck. 

Sergeant Apodaca was pronounced dead at 11:44 p.m. Apodaca began his career with Taos County working at the county jail in February 2014, joining the sheriff’s department in January 2018.

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Sergeant Joseph Apodaca, who dedicated his life to serving and protecting the people of Taos County,” said Matthew Broom, chief of the New Mexico State Police. “This tragedy is felt across the entire law enforcement community, and we stand alongside the men and women of the Taos County Sheriff’s Office during this incredibly difficult time. The New Mexico State Police is committed to supporting the Taos County Sheriff’s Office in any way we can as they grieve the loss of their brother. We ask all New Mexicans to keep his loved ones, friends, and fellow deputies in their thoughts as they navigate the days ahead.”

Crash causes closures on Interstate 25 north of Santa Fe

SANTA FE, NM – Traffic was restricted along a stretch of Interstate 25 on Tuesday afternoon because of a crash.

According to an advisory on NMRoads at 1:05 p.m., crews responded to I-25 northbound at mile marker 311, 27 miles north of Santa Fe.

The accident shut down the right lane and right shoulder of the interstate. Motorists were advised to use extreme caution, reduce speed, obey posted signs, and watch for emergency personnel and equipment.

At the time of the notification, there was no alternate route available.

Driver hurt in Chaves County accident after falling asleep at wheel

CHAVES COUNTY, NM – The Chaves County Sheriff’s Office released information regarding a single-vehicle rollover accident that occurred last Wednesday afternoon.

A preliminary investigation indicated that a driver fell asleep and lost control of their vehicle shortly before 2:30 p.m., resulting in a crash on State Road 2 at milepost 14.

The driver was taken to an area hospital to be treated for undisclosed injuries. Hagerman Fire and Dexter Fire assisted in the response to the wreck.

Have you been hurt? Then call Bert!

At Parnall Law, our experienced team of Albuquerque motorcycle accident attorneys understands the challenges of motorcycle accident cases.  So if you were injured in a motorcycle crash due to someone else’s negligence, we will investigate the cause of your crash, confront at-fault drivers and their insurance companies, and demand full and fair compensation for your injuries. Reach out to schedule a free consultation via our contact form or by calling (505) 268-6500.