The initial investigation indicated that Clarice Tsosie, 32, of Albuquerque, NM was walking across the north and southbound lanes of U.S. 550 in a dark and unlit area near milepost 134. She was struck by a northbound 2019 Jeep Cherokee, driven by a 23-year-old Odessa, TX woman, who swerved and braked to avoid the collision. Clarice Tsosie suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
From NM State Police
April 23, 2021
On April 22, 2021, at about 9:00 p.m. the New Mexico State Police investigated a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on U.S. Highway 550 around milepost 134, south of Bloomfield.
The initial investigation indicated that Clarice Tsosie, 32, of Albuquerque, NM was walking across the north and southbound lanes of U.S. 550 in a dark and unlit area near milepost 134. She was struck by a northbound 2019 Jeep Cherokee, driven by a 23-year-old Odessa, TX woman, who swerved and braked to avoid the collision. Clarice Tsosie suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Alcohol does not appear to be a contributing factor to the crash. This crash is under investigation 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.