On a fateful afternoon southeast of Roswell, New Mexico, a severe dust storm led to a catastrophic multi-vehicle collision, resulting in one fatality and numerous injuries. The incident, which unfolded around 2:30 p.m. at the intersection of U.S. 285 and East Orchard Park Road, involved a sequence of crashes triggered by a Dodge Ram’s collision with a Ford pickup during hazardous weather conditions.
Initial Collision and Ensuing Chaos
The chain-reaction crash began when the Dodge Ram, attempting to cross U.S. 285, collided with a Ford pickup, immobilizing both vehicles in the northbound lanes. This initial accident set off a domino effect, culminating in a Nissan Frontier, operated by 63-year-old David Pedroza, crashing into the back of a trailer that had stopped to avoid the wreckage. This impact led to three additional vehicles becoming embroiled in the crash, magnifying the tragedy.
Victims and Emergency Response
The collision claimed the life of David Pedroza, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash also resulted in injuries to a 49-year-old woman and a 15-year-old girl, who were promptly taken to a local hospital. Details regarding their condition and the extent of their injuries have not been released. Following the incident, New Mexico State Police spokesperson Ray Wilson confirmed that the crash was significantly influenced by the dust storm, which reduced visibility and made driving conditions perilously difficult.
Ongoing Investigation
New Mexico State Police are diligently investigating the circumstances leading up to the multi-vehicle crash. The inquiry aims to ascertain the precise sequence of events and determine whether any preventable factors contributed to the accident’s severity. The investigation remains active, with authorities appealing for witnesses and any additional information that may shed light on the tragic events of that day.
As the community mourns the loss of…
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