Motorcycle Crash on I-25 Leaves One in Critical Condition
SANTA FE, NM — A motorcycle crash on Interstate 25 near the Old Pecos Trail exit left Cynthia Montano, 49, critically injured, while her husband, Lawrence Montano, 52, was released from the hospital on May 14, 2023.
According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, a truck entered the highway and struck the Montanos while they were riding northbound. Witnesses reported the truck driver was behaving erratically prior to the collision. Emergency responders arrived at the scene and transported Cynthia Montano to a local hospital.
The crash has sparked renewed discussions about motorcycle safety as authorities confirm a high number of incidents involving motorcycles in New Mexico. Leanne Early of the New Mexico Motorcycle Safety Foundation noted that there were 1,042 motorcycle crashes statewide in 2021, resulting in 55 fatalities.
Frank Montano, a spokesman for the New Mexico Motorcyclist Rights Organization, highlighted the role of distracted driving in many accidents. The organization plans to implement a “Ghost Bike” program aimed at promoting safety awareness by honoring fallen motorcyclists across the state.
As the Montanos’ family seeks support through a GoFundMe page, their daughter, Gwen Henry, expressed the significant impact of the incident on their lives, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and no charges have been filed against the truck driver at this time. Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding lane closures or towing from the scene.