Speeding SUV Strikes Pedestrians on Forni Rd in Eddy Co., NM

Eddy County, NM (July 6, 2026) – One person died and a suspect fled on foot after a driver struck several pedestrians late on Saturday night, July 4, near the Six Mile Dam area on Forni Road.

According to the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office, a man driving a late-model SUV was traveling at a high rate of speed through the area just before midnight when the vehicle struck multiple people on foot.

One person did not survive. The condition of the other people hit has not been confirmed.

The driver left the scene on foot after the crash. Deputies later recovered the vehicle as part of the investigation.

Our condolences go out to the family of the person who died, and our thoughts are with the others who were hurt.

What Happens When a Hit-and-Run Suspect Flees on Foot in Eddy County, NM?

When a driver flees a crash scene, New Mexico law allows victims and families to pursue a claim even before the suspect is caught, since uninsured motorist coverage under the victim’s own policy can often step in while the search continues. 

People struck by a vehicle at high speed can suffer serious injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, and internal injuries that may require extended hospital stays and rehabilitation. When one person dies and others are hurt in the same crash, families and injured survivors may be pursuing separate claims at the same time, each with its own set of damages and evidence needs.

New Mexico follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning a driver’s fault, even a fleeing one, doesn’t have to be the sole cause for a family or survivor to recover compensation. 

In the case where the vehicle has already been recovered, physical evidence like paint transfer, debris, and vehicle data may help identify the driver even before an arrest is made, and a wrongful death lawyer can help make sure that evidence is properly preserved. New Mexico generally allows three years from the date of a crash to file a personal injury claim, and a separate wrongful death claim on behalf of the person who died.

At Will Ferguson & Associates, we know that hit-and-run cases involve uninsured motorist coverage and evidence that needs to be gathered quickly. Therefore, our team is open to answer questions from grieving families across New Mexico to walk them through what steps make sense given the facts of their case. 

You can call Will Ferguson & Associates at (505) 243-5566 to talk about your situation with our team. We are here to help you understand your options.