Nora Abeita, 50, Pleads Guilty to Involuntary Manslaughter in Fatal Drunk Driving Incident

ALBUQUERQUE – In a shocking turn of events, Nora Abeita, 50, has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter after driving while intoxicated and fatally striking a man with her vehicle following an altercation.

According to court records, on the morning of May 28, 2023, Abeita, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and several others consumed alcohol together at a residence. After an altercation with the victim, Abeita attempted to leave the residence with a friend. While driving away, Abeita struck the victim with her vehicle. She did not immediately realize she had run over him until alerted by others. Unfortunately, the victim died from his injuries.

Abeita’s blood alcohol concentration was measured at .16 approximately five hours after the incident – more than double the legal limit in both New Mexico and the Navajo Nation. This reckless behavior has led to severe consequences for Abeita.

At sentencing, Abeita faces up to eight years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Abeita will be subject to up to three years of supervised release. The full weight of the law will be brought down on Abeita for her actions.

The U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Ellison and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Navajo Nation Department of Public Safety investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.

Abeita’s actions have had devastating consequences for the victim and his loved ones. The community is left to pick up the pieces and wonder how such a tragedy could have occurred.

The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.

Mandatory Facts:

• Defendant/Respondent: Nora Abeita
• Criminal Charges: Involuntary Manslaughter
• City and State: Thoreau, New Mexico
• Exact Date: May 28, 2023
• Sentence or Outcome: Up to 8 years in prison and up to 3 years of supervised release

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