Man Arrested in Connection with Fatal Mayhill Crash in June

Alamogordo N.M. - Terry Godwin, 58, was arrested on August 14, 2026, at his residence without incident. He is being held at the Lea County Detention Center pending court proceedings and return to Otero County.

Incident Details

On June 5, 2026, the Tularosa Basin Regional Dispatch Authority received reports of a white 2023 GMC pickup traveling recklessly westbound on U.S. Highway 82. At approximately 6:03 p.m., the pickup crossed into the eastbound lane near Mayhill and collided head-on with a 2008 Honda Accord. The Honda’s driver, who was from Sacramento, New Mexico, was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Investigation Findings

 According to investigators, Godwin, the GMC driver, had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.19—more than double the legal limit—and was traveling 70 to 75 miles per hour in a posted 35-mph zone at the time of the collision.

Charges Filed

An arrest warrant was issued charging Godwin with:

• Homicide by vehicle

• Aggravated DWI, second offense

• Reckless driving

• Possession of an open container

• Failure to wear a seatbelt

The investigation was conducted by the Otero County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State Police, with assistance from the NMSP Vehicular Crimes Unit.

All charges are allegations. Godwin is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

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