ALBUQUERQUE, NM – Mateo L. Maestas, a 21-year-old from Acoma Pueblo, N.M., has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in federal court after a deadly car crash that left one woman dead. The incident occurred on April 16, 2019, when Maestas was alleged to be driving under the influence of alcohol in Cibola County.
The tragic crash involved Maestas’ vehicle colliding with another car containing a woman and two children. The woman, an enrolled member of the Laguna Indian Tribe, succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Maestas is also an enrolled member of the Acoma Indian Tribe.
Currently in custody, Maestas faces up to eight years in prison if convicted of involuntary manslaughter. The Bureau of Indian Affairs led the investigation into this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elisa C. Dimas is handling the prosecution.
The Laguna woman’s death has left her community in mourning, with many expressing shock over the senseless loss. Local leaders have called for tougher measures to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
As the investigation continues, the grim reality of this case underscores the dangers associated with driving while intoxicated, especially when children are involved. The public is reminded of the potential consequences of impaired driving and the pain it can inflict on families and communities.
Maestas’ arraignment has been set for a later date, at which point he will be officially informed of the charges against him and his legal options moving forward.
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Key Facts
- State: New Mexico
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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