An alleged intoxicated driver entered a Christmas parade route on the Navajo Nation in Arizona, striking four people and causing at least one death. Authorities arrested the driver and transferred them to the local Department of Corrections. The FBI and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation are assisting Navajo Police. Victims include a young person in critical condition and a pregnant woman, and the community has been asked to keep those affected in their thoughts.
Alleged Drunk Driver Plows Into Navajo Nation Christmas Parade; At Least One Dead, Several Injured
Multiple people, including pregnant woman, struck by alleged drunk driver at Navajo Nation Christmas parade
An alleged intoxicated driver drove into the route of a Christmas parade on the Navajo Nation in Arizona on Monday, striking multiple bystanders and causing at least one fatality, Navajo Police said.
Incident Details
The Navajo Police Department said officers responded at about 5 p.m. after reports that a vehicle entered the parade route along Navajo Route 591 near the Kayenta Rodeo Grounds as people waited for the event to begin. Four people were reported struck, and authorities confirmed that life was lost during the incident.
Officials also reported damage to vehicles and other property at the scene. The driver was arrested at the scene and later transported to the local Department of Corrections, according to police.
The FBI and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation are assisting Navajo Police in the investigation.
Investigation and Agencies Involved
The case remains under investigation. The FBI and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation are assisting Navajo Police with their inquiry.
"A tragic event during the holidays can change someone’s life and hurt families across the Navajo Nation," Navajo Police wrote on Facebook. "If you see someone who may be impaired, take their keys, help them get home safely, or call your local Navajo Police Department."
Victims and Community Reaction
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said that among those struck were a "young person" in critical condition and a pregnant woman. He called the incident a heartbreaking disruption to a celebration meant to bring joy and unity to the community.
Kayenta Township posted that the community's primary concern is the well‑being of those affected and asked residents to keep victims and their families in their thoughts and prayers.
Authorities urge anyone with information or video of the incident to contact Navajo Police as the investigation continues.
