On Monday, July 11, 2016, around 4:20 p.m., New Mexico State Police officers responded to the scene of a fatal motor vehicle crash.  This crash occurred on U.S. 285 near mile marker 166. 

The initial investigation revealed that a vehicle, driven by Romeo King (15) from Artesia, New Mexico, was traveling northbound when the vehicle drifted off the roadway and onto the shoulder where it over turned several times. 
 
The driver sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The passenger in the vehicle sustained minor injuries and was treated and released.

This vehicle crash is still under investigation.  

(News release from the New Mexico State Police)