The initial investigation indicated that a 2003 Subaru, driven by Rachel Kahwajy (31) of Farmington, NM was traveling on NM 539, approaching a tight curve. For reasons still under investigation, Ms. Kahwajy failed to negotiate the curve, and ended up driving over a cliff. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. Glenn Taketa (53) of Farmington, a passenger in the vehicle, was also pronounced deceased on scene.
From NM State Police
Tuesday, June 20, 2023
On June 18, 2023, at around 6:00 p.m., the New Mexico State Police investigated a fatal crash involving a single vehicle on NM 511 and NM 539.
The initial investigation indicated that a 2003 Subaru, driven by Rachel Kahwajy (31) of Farmington, NM was traveling on NM 539, approaching a tight curve. For reasons still under investigation, Ms. Kahwajy failed to negotiate the curve, and ended up driving over a cliff. She sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. Glenn Taketa (53) of Farmington, a passenger in the vehicle, was also pronounced deceased on scene.
This crash is being investigated by the New Mexico State Police.
The Sheriff's Office Traffic Reconstruction Team responded to conduct the investigation into the fatal crash. Two persons on bicycles (an adult male and an adult female) were struck by a 2006 Ford Ranger driven by Jaron Todecheeny of Aztec, NM. Both bicyclists died at the scene.
As Vice President of Diversity Affairs at FLC, Heather Shotton has played a pivotal role in advancing a culture of belonging and enhancing student access and success. In addition to her work in diversity affairs, she serves as Acting Dean of Student Engagement, overseeing more than 70 staff members supporting student well-being and success.
The initial call was received at 5:23 AM. The individual was identified from video surveillance. The male was contacted by Durango Police Department Patrol and is now in custody. He has been identified as Joe Brinkerhoff, a resident of the City of Durango. Due to a prior incident, Joe Brinkerhoff was trespassed from the property and his Rec Center privileges were suspended.
After a thorough and ongoing investigation by detectives and working with the district attorney's office, a thorough review of the case was conducted, and the decision to proceed with criminal charges was made. A warrant was issued to charge Heather Fernandez-Hoefer. She was taken into custody without incident on April 1, 2025.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with multiple individuals including juveniles and young adults and located a deceased individual identified as Samuell Tariq Liggins, age 20.