Two Bicyclists Killed on N36 in alleged DWI Crash

Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 7:34 AM

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.

From the San Juan County Sheriff's Office

Saturday, April 26, 2025

On Saturday April 26th, 2025, at 1:48 am, Deputies with the San Juan County Sheriff's Office were dispatched to a fatal crash near the 27 mile marker on Navajo Route 36 in San Juan County.

.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 Todacheeny of Aztec, NM. Both bicyclists died at the scene.

The bicyclists were later identified as Cody Newton, 34, and Francis Matias, 54. Next of kin has been notified.

.The on-scene investigation determined Jaron Todecheeny was under the influence of alcohol. He was arrested for Homicide by Motor Vehicle-DWI and other traffic related charges and booked into the San Juan County Adult Detention Center in Farmington, NM.

More from Local News

San Juan Co. to NM: Find Out Why Local Gas Prices Are High

The New Mexico Department of Justice has investigated fuel prices in San Juan County under prior Attorneys General. Investigations were inconclusive, but there was relief at the pump for a brief period. “We just want to be assured that San Juan County is paying what’s fair at the pump,” said Commissioner Lanier. “With limited competition between brands, it is worth checking out.”
Suspect Sought in July 4th Fatal Shooting

Deputies responded to reports of a shooting and located 18-year-old Elihue Vialpando, who had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. A second victim, Jack Chavez, suffered a gunshot wound to his leg and was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center for treatment. Witness statements revealed Vialpando brandished a pistol and fired rounds earlier in the night, but based on the timeline of events and witness statements, did not support actions by Thomas Vigil.
Authorities Search for DWI Treatment Center Escapee

The suspect escaped during Sunday afternoon church services. He asked to go to the bathroom and never returned, immediately initiating a count and search of the facility. This is the first escape in the 31-year history of the jail-based treatment center.
Farmington Man Sentenced on Child Porn Conviction

Earlier this week, Jacob Marriott was sentenced after pleading guilty to 4 counts of Manufacturing of Child Pornography (2nd Degree Felony), 1 count of Possession of Child Pornography (4th Degree Felony), and 2 counts of Voyeurism of a Child Under 18 (3rd Degree Felony).
Colorado Business Expands in Farmington

NM-backed expansion expected to generate more than $22 million economic impact
2026 NM Primary Local (Unofficial) Results

We'll be updating this page with results throughout the evening on Tuesday, June 2, 2026: These are the unofficial results of the contested NM Primary races in San Juan County on June 2, 2026: