Possible DWI-related fatality

As Salvador Araujo was exiting from Sun Loans in Tse Bonito onto east Highway 264 on the afternoon of April 3, his vehicle was struck by Shad Etsitty, who according to witness statements, was traveling down 264 at a high rate of speed, weaving in and out of traffic.

Araujo was pronounced dead at the scene, at 3:40 pm.

According to the accident report, compiled by McKinley County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Joseph Guillen, the damage to Araujo’s vehicle and body was significant. He was pinned in the driver seat by the driver door and steering wheel, and had sustained visible head injuries and a possible chest injury.

Navajo Nation Lt. Moore told deputies on scene that “he could smell an odor of intoxicating liquor coming from the driver” … Etsitty.

Etsitty was transported to Fort Defiance hospital. It’s unclear if he sustained injuries, or if he’s facing DWI and/or negligent driving charges at this juncture.