Alamogordo NM
7-07-2025 7:02pm

NMSP charges man in fatal hit and run in Sunland Park

On July 3rd, 2025, at around 10:47 p.m., New Mexico State Police District 4 officers were dispatched to the intersection of Sunland Park Drive and Appaloosa Drive for a fatal hit-and-run crash involving two pedestrians.

The investigation revealed that two pedestrians were crossing the road when they were struck by a maroon Ford Ranger traveling at a high rate of speed. One of the pedestrians was critically injured and transported to the hospital to receive treatment for their injuries. The other pedestrian, Graciela Sahs, died from her injuries at the scene. The driver fled westbound from the scene.

A BOLO (Be On the Look Out) was issued to surrounding agencies. Sunland Park Police later located a damaged maroon Ford Ranger concealed under a tarp at a residence in Sunland Park. The evidence and damage observed on the vehicle were consistent with the findings at the crash scene. The suspected driver was identified as 61-year-old Vincente Vasquez. Additionally, investigators learned that Vasquez had told family members he had "killed" someone near the casino.

During questioning, Vasquez later admitted to being involved in the crash. He stated he believed he hit a dog and did not stop after the impact because he was tired. He also admitted to hiding the damage with a tarp.

Vasquez was arrested and charged with the following:

· Homicide by vehicle

· Knowingly leaving the scene of an accident with great bodily harm or death

· Failure to give information and render aid

· Failure to give immediate notice of an accident

· Tampering with evidence

This incident remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.

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