EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A 19-year-old woman faces a felony charge after a fatal hit-and-run crash in northwest El Paso on Monday night.
Ambar Chavira was charged with collision involving death following the incident around 9:15 p.m. in the 6300 block of North Desert Boulevard. Authorities said Chavira was driving a silver 2016 BMW 428i and rear-ended another vehicle, causing a four-car chain reaction.
Jaime Andrade, 56, the driver of a Subaru Outback involved in the crash, succumbed to his injuries at University Medical Center. Witnesses reported a chaotic scene, stating another vehicle struck the wreck moments after the initial impact. Chavira allegedly fled the scene on foot without providing aid. According to the police affidavit, her mother later contacted law enforcement to report her daughter's departure from the crash site.
Officers located Chavira at a residence on Rosa Gandara Drive, where she exhibited signs of intoxication. Chavira admitted to consuming multiple alcoholic drinks at the Hope and Anchor bar before attempting to drive home. She reportedly acknowledged leaving the scene despite being advised to stay and call 911.
Regulatory and Community Response
The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is investigating whether the bar violated state laws regarding alcohol service to minors. The incident has intensified calls for legislative reform from the Sober Streets Movement, an advocacy group addressing impaired driving issues.
“The penalties currently in place are not deterring people from these crimes,” said Aracely Rascon, a program coordinator for the organization.
The case remains under investigation by El Paso police.