Aztec Man, 2 year old, both killed in Thursday Crash

Sunday, October 22, 2023 at 10:40 AM

The initial investigation indicated a white Dodge pick-up, driven by Charles Lane, 64, of Aztec, NM., was travelling northbound on U.S. Highway-491, near milepost 34. For unknown Reasons, Mr. Lane’s vehicle left the roadway and crashed into the rear of a commercial motor vehicle (CMV), that was parked on the shoulder, due to mechanical issues.

From NM State Police

Saturday, October 21, 2023

On October 19, 2023, at about 6:00 p.m. The New Mexico State Police investigated a double fatal, two vehicle crash that occurred on U.S. Highway 491 in McKinley County.

There was a two-year-old passenger in the Dodge pick-up, who sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. Mr. Lane was transported to a hospital in Albuquerque, where he succumbed to his injuries.

There were two occupants in the parked CMV, who did not sustain injuries.

Alcohol does not appear to be a contributing factor.

The New Mexico State Police are investigating the crash.

More from Local News

Two Bicyclists Killed on N36 in alleged DWI Crash

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.
One Dead After House Fire Saturday Afternoon

Second occupant in critical condition; Identity of victims not yet released.
First Native American President Named at Fort Lewis College

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.
Arrest Made after Durango Rec Center Damaged by Gunfire

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.
Police Arrest Woman for Husband's Fatal Stabbing 5 years ago

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.
Update: Arrest Made in Fatal Shooting

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.