One Vehicle Fatal Rollover Crash in Lea County

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Written by Officer Dusty Francisco 08/23/2021

Lea County, NM – On August 21, 2021, at approximately 11:53 a.m., the New Mexico State Police investigated a one vehicle fatal rollover crash near 643 Anthony Road, west of Bennett, NM.

The initial investigation indicates a 2000 Ford pick-up truck, driven by Ruben Ponce Fuentes (43) from Hobbs, NM was traveling east on Anthony Road. The vehicle left the roadway, struck a dirt mound, and rolled. Fuentes was ejected from the vehicle. He sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Office of Medical Investigator.

Alcohol was not a factor in the crash and seatbelts were not properly utilized. Speed appears to be a contributing factor in the crash. This crash is under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.