Fort Bliss Soldier Dies in Collision

By Adrienne Alvarez - Weekend Anchor/ Reporter
Sunday, February 8, 2009 - 5:58pm

CHAPARRAL, N.M.--- A Fort Bliss soldier died after crashing his SUV into a semi truck early Sunday morning, according to New Mexico State Police.

Hector Martinez, 19, was driving a 2005 gray Jeep utility vehicle around 1 a.m. when he rear-ended a 2001 Commercial Freightliner semi pulling a box trailer on State 213 near State Road 404 in Chaparral, said state police spokesman Lt. Eric Garcia in a news release.

There was no indication Martinez tried to brake prior to the impact, said Garcia.

Witnesses told investigators the Jeep was speeding, said Garcia.

Though Martinez was wearing a seatbelt, he was pronounced dead on the scene, said Garcia. The driver of the semi was not hurt.

Investigators believe alcohol and speed were contributing factors to the crash.

Stay with NewsChannel 9 for the latest developments.

Post new Comment