Man Struck by Car, Dies

Monday, October 17, 2016 at 9:48 AM

Deputies responded to the area of the 45 mile marker on U.S. 64 to reports of a male dancing on the highway. Less than a minute after the dispatch, the male was struck by a vehicle. First arriving deputies administered CPR but were unsuccessful in their efforts. The male was identified as 79 year old Thomas Houser of Waterflow.

From the San Juan Co. Sheriff's Office

On October 14, 2016, at approximately 8:15 p.m. Deputies responded to the area of the 45 mile marker on U.S. 64 to reports of a male dancing on the highway. Less than a minute after the dispatch, the male was struck by a vehicle. First arriving deputies administered CPR but were unsuccessful in their efforts.

The male was identified as 79 year old Thomas Houser of Waterflow. Thomas was reported several hours later as an Alzheimer’s patient who wandered away from the house.

Thomas was in an unlit area of U.S. 64 and was wearing dark clothing. No charges will be filed against the driver of the vehicle.

More from Local News

Floods Impact SW Colorado Highways

Recent flooding washed out roads and a bridge, causing full closures on common routes and significant repair delays along key corridors.
2026 Mid-term Election results

Results from the contested races in San Juan County, NM, in the 2026 midterm elections held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. These results are considered unofficial until certified by the San Juan County canvassing board.
Gov. to Visit Flood-Stricken San Juan County

The governor’s visit was carefully scheduled to give first responders, law enforcement and emergency vehicles ample time to complete rescues and other emergency work during the flooding. Now that the floodwaters are receding and initial damage assessments are underway, the Governor will survey the disaster zone and work to get families the help they need.
National Guard, State Police carry out rescues as historic flooding hits San Juan County

New Mexico Governor Lujan Grisham preparing request for federal disaster declaration
Bloomfield: Wastewater Emergency

Bloomfield Residents and businesses: please minimize water use until further notice. Postpone laundry and dishwasher use, keep showers brief, and reduce toilet flushing when practical and sanitary. Every reduction helps limit wastewater entering the river.
Woman's Husband Arrested for Kirtland Killing

Through the course of the investigation, detectives discovered that Lauren Patterson’s husband, Jess Patterson, had previously resided in California and had been arrested at least 6 times for domestic violence in that state and had been arrested in July 2026 in New Mexico for battering Ms. Patterson. An autopsy revealed Ms. Patterson suffered multiple broken bones, bruising, and internal injuries.