A woman who is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation has been charged with involuntary manslaughter.

According to the indictment and other records, on Feb. 11, 2022, Mariah Chapo crashed her vehicle after driving at a high rate of speed while intoxicated, ultimately killing an unsecured eight-month-old child. The alleged homicide occurred within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation.

Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, announced Feb. 24 that Chapo, 26,  was arraigned in federal court Feb. 23, on a charge of involuntary manslaughter. Chapo, 26, will remain on conditions of release pending trial.

Staff Reports