TULAROSA, NM — November 6, 2026 A three-vehicle collision at the intersection of U.S. 70 and Old Mescalero Road in Tularosa left multiple people injured and resulted in the arrest of a 24-year-old driver, according to New Mexico State Police.
The accident occurred shortly after 4 p.m. on Friday when a black Chevrolet traveling northbound on Old Mescalero Road allegedly approached the intersection at a high rate of speed.
Investigators said the Chevrolet driver failed to obey a stop sign before entering U.S. 70, where the vehicle collided with a white van carrying 10 occupants and a silver SUV occupied by three people.
The impact left three people trapped inside the van, requiring firefighters to use extrication equipment to free them.
At least six occupants of the van were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Two others were airlifted to a medical facility in El Paso. Additionally, two passengers from the SUV were taken to a hospital.
The Chevrolet driver, identified as Oren Shanta, along with his two passengers, also sustained injuries and received medical attention. Their specific conditions, as well as those of the other injured individuals, were not immediately disclosed.
According to authorities, officers noticed an odor of alcohol and observed indicators of possible impairment when they encountered Shanta. Witnesses also reportedly told investigators that the Chevrolet had passed through the stop sign at high speed.
Shanta was subsequently arrested and faces charges of great bodily harm by vehicle while intoxicated and reckless driving.
