EL PASO, Texas — A tragic accident claimed the life of a 32-year-old El Paso woman, Monica Alvarado, after she failed to maintain her lane of travel while driving on I-10 East near Sunland Park. The crash occurred late Friday, Dec. 13, according to El Paso Police.
The El Paso Police Department’s Special Traffic Investigations Unit responded to the scene at approximately 11:30 p.m. after reports of a single-vehicle crash. Investigators determined that Alvarado was driving an SUV eastbound on I-10 when, for reasons still under investigation, she lost control and veered off the roadway.
The vehicle reportedly left the travel lanes and crashed, causing fatal injuries. Alvarado was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police identified failure to maintain a single lane as the primary contributing factor in the crash. Investigators have not disclosed additional details regarding what may have caused the vehicle to swerve off the highway.
Traffic Fatalities in El Paso
This fatal incident marks the 68th traffic-related death in El Paso in 2024. At the same point last year, the city had reported 75 traffic fatalities. Despite a slight decline in the year-to-year comparison, authorities continue to stress the importance of safe driving practices.
“Staying focused on the road and maintaining your lane are critical to preventing tragedies like this,” a spokesperson for the El Paso Police Department stated. “We urge all drivers to be vigilant, especially during the busy holiday season.”
Community Response and Road Safety Measures
The crash has prompted renewed discussions about road safety on I-10, a major transportation corridor frequently traveled by El Paso residents. City officials have previously implemented traffic safety campaigns aimed at reducing collisions, including increased law enforcement patrols and public education efforts.
Local drivers expressed condolences on social media, with many calling for further safety improvements along I-10, particularly in high-traffic areas near Sunland Park.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information about the crash to contact the El Paso Police Department’s Special Traffic Investigations Unit.
Staying Safe on the Road
To prevent similar accidents, drivers are encouraged to:
- Stay alert and avoid distractions.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
- Follow posted speed limits.
- Use turn signals when changing lanes.
- Regularly inspect vehicles for mechanical issues.
With the holiday season in full swing, police remind drivers that even a momentary lapse in attention can result in a life-altering tragedy.
