Drunk Driving Crash on New Year’s Eve Kills Passenger in Albuquerque
Albuquerque, NM (January 2, 2025) — A New Year’s Eve crash on Indian School Road resulted in the death of a passenger and injuries to two others, leading to the arrest of 24-year-old Joshua Montoya.
According to authorities, the incident occurred at approximately 8:36 PM at the intersection of Indian School Road NE and Wyoming Boulevard. Montoya was driving a silver Honda when it collided with a white Lincoln, which was turning onto Indian School Road.
Both drivers sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to UNMH for treatment. The passenger in the Lincoln was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police reported that Montoya admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the collision, exhibiting signs of intoxication such as slurred speech and bloodshot eyes. A portable breath test indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 0.121, exceeding New Mexico’s legal limit of 0.08.
Montoya was charged with Homicide by Vehicle (DUI) and Great Bodily Harm by Vehicle (DUI). He refused a voluntary blood test, necessitating a court-ordered blood draw at the hospital.
Investigators determined that the Lincoln was traveling south on Wyoming Boulevard and was obstructed by a U-Haul while making the turn. Video footage from the scene captured one vehicle on fire as emergency responders dealt with the aftermath of the collision.
The investigation remains ongoing.