Socorro, NM – On May 21, 2023, at around 11:00 a.m., the New Mexico State Police investigated a fatal crash involving 2 vehicles on Interstate 25, north of Lemitar, NM.
The initial investigation indicated that a 2007 Jeep SUV, was traveling southbound on Interstate 25. A 2015 Nissan passenger vehicle was driving behind the Jeep. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan rear ended the Jeep, causing the Jeep to roll over. Patricia Despain (73) of Holbrook AZ, a passenger in the Jeep, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. The driver of the Jeep and driver of the Nissan were both transported to an area hospital. Their conditions are unknown.
Alcohol was not a factor and seatbelts appear to be properly utilized in this crash.
This crash is being investigated by the New Mexico State Police.
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