Farmington Motorcycle Rider Killed after Striking Deer on US 550

Monday, May 11, 2020 at 3:04 PM

From NM State Police

Monday, May 11, 2020

On May 10, 2020 at about 9:02 p.m., the New Mexico State Police investigated a fatal motorcycle crash on U.S. Route 550, near mile post 104, by Counselor, NM.

The initial investigation indicated a 1990 Harley Davidson Motorcycle, driven by Ronald Martinez (59) of Farmington, NM, was traveling north in the left lane on U.S. Route 550 when his motorcycle struck a deer that had ran across the roadway. Martinez who was wearing a helmet, was ejected from the motorcycle. Martinez sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Office of Medical Investigator.

Alcohol does not appear to have been a contributing factor in the crash. No additional information is available.

More from Local News

Woman Injured in Shooting, Suspect Arrested

As three individuals tried to leave a party, a male subject began shooting, unintentionally striking the vehicle and, subsequently, a passenger inside the vehicle. The passenger was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center and later transported to UNM in Albuquerque, where she is awake and in stable condition.
Arrest Made in Fatal Hit & Run

Using multiple means of evidence, the driver was identified as Alvin Paul who was driving a 2003 white Chevrolet when he veered off the road, hitting Shirley. Paul did not stop or report the crash and surveillance footage from a nearby business proved Paul as the driver. He later admitted to operating the vehicle carelessly. At the time of the crash, Paul’s driver’s license was revoked from a prior DWI arrests. He has two prior DWI convictions and is currently on probation for the second DWI.
Two Dead after Shooting in Farmington-Update

Preliminary investigation indicates the individuals involved were known to one another, and this incident does not appear to be a random act of violence.
Candidates File for Municipal Elections

Candidates filed for municipal elections today. Elections will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
Man Arrested after School Threat

No weapons were located on the suspect and he was arrested and charged with assault upon a school employee, unlawful shooting threats, disorderly conduct, and interference with members of staff or the general public.
Study finds local rail line "feasible," Project moves Forward

In addition, the study finds that reducing truck traffic on major highways is a major benefit to rail, with reduced motor vehicle crashes and reduced wear and tear to roadways. The next phase of this project is already funded by a $4 million Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement (CRISI) Grant and $1 million match from the New Mexico Match Fund.