Raton, NM - Injuries in Boating Accident at Mills Canyon near NM-56

Raton, NM (May 18, 2025) - Members of the New Mexico National Guard were called to the scene of a boating accident outside of Raton on Friday, May 16. The incident took place at Mills Canyon near NM-56. The circumstances leading to the incident have not yet been determined.

Officials were called to the scene to render aid to the involved parties. One person was transported by helicopter to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment. Another injured party was evacuated on foot, and a third party was able to leave on their own. No updates on the conditions of the involved parties have been provided at this time. No further information on the accident is currently available. An ongoing investigation into the cause of the incident is being managed by local law enforcement officials, and more updates will be provided as it continues. 

Our thoughts are with the injured victims and their families at this time. We hope for their full recovery.

Boating Accidents in New Mexico

Riding a boat is a beloved pastime in New Mexico. Unfortunately, any type of vehicle can be involved in an accident, even if you’re not on the road. Every year, more than 5,000 boating crashes happen in the United States, costing $62.5 million in estimated damages. During the early 2020s, boating-related fatalities increased by nearly 25.1 percent nationwide. Most deadly boating accidents happen because people don't know how to operate a boat safely. Drinking alcohol is the main cause of fatal boating crashes, and statistics show that an estimated 86 percent of people who drowned were not wearing a life jacket. Nearly 11.6 percent of adults and 65.8 percent of kids don't wear a life jacket, which can greatly increase the risk of drowning in the event of an accident. If you or someone close to you is hurt in a boating accident, you may be able to pursue a claim for compensation in order to be made whole again. 

If you were injured in a boating accident, you need the assistance of a skilled accident attorney. The respected New Mexico law firm Will Ferguson & Associates has a proven track record that demonstrates our ability to manage personal injury claims and achieve successful outcomes for our clients. If you would like to speak with a qualified New Mexico personal injury lawyer about your case, please give our offices a call at (505) 243-5566.