SUNLAND PARK, N.M. — A deadly hit-and-run incident late Thursday night has left a young woman dead and a man seriously injured in Sunland Park. The New Mexico State Police confirmed the crash happened around 10:45 p.m. on July 3 near the intersection of Sunland Park Drive and Appaloosa Drive.
Authorities say a maroon or red Ford truck struck two pedestrians—26-year-old Graciela Citlali-Tonazin Sahs and an unidentified man—before fleeing the scene. The driver did not stop to help or call emergency services. Emergency responders from the Sunland Park Fire Department arrived shortly after and pronounced Sahs dead at the scene. The male victim was transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition, though no further updates have been released.
According to officials, the crash was violent, and the impact caused severe injuries. The fact that the driver fled without offering aid has left the community shaken. The New Mexico State Police are now actively investigating and working to identify the suspect and the vehicle involved. Investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward, especially those who may have seen a maroon or red Ford truck in the area around the time of the crash.
At this time, authorities have not said whether any surveillance footage or witness statements have been obtained. They stress that even small pieces of information—such as seeing a similar vehicle with front-end damage—could help solve the case. Anyone with tips is encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the New Mexico State Police directly.
Graciela Sahs’s sudden and tragic death has deeply impacted her family and the Sunland Park community. Known to many as a kind and caring individual, her loss is being mourned by friends, loved ones, and neighbors. The man injured in the crash remains in critical condition, and the community is hoping for his full recovery.
Hit-and-run incidents continue to be a serious problem in New Mexico and across the U.S. Authorities are reminding drivers that leaving the scene of a crash is not only illegal but also inhumane. As the investigation continues, the Sunland Park community grieves the loss of a young life and seeks justice for both victims.