In a tragic turn of events, the city of Santa Fe is mourning the loss of 43-year-old Monique Maes, a beloved community member, who was fatally struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run incident on Tuesday evening. Maes, along with her two young children, was walking near Paseo Nopal, a rural area located just off a county road, when the tragedy occurred. The news of her passing has sent shockwaves through her family, friends, and the wider community, leaving a deep sense of sorrow and outrage.
According to reports from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, Maes was out for an evening walk with her children, aged 8 and 12, when a vehicle suddenly struck the family. Tragically, Maes succumbed to her injuries, while her children were also hurt in the crash. They were promptly treated at a local hospital and, fortunately, released later that night. Despite surviving, the trauma and emotional scars of the event are likely to linger for them, their family, and those who knew Maes.
The vehicle involved in the hit-and-run was reported to have fled the scene immediately after the crash. Witnesses present at the time of the incident noted the vehicle speeding away, which prompted law enforcement to quickly begin a search for the suspect. Later that same evening, a white SUV with apparent front-end damage was found abandoned several miles from the scene, parked at an intersection. The Sheriff’s Office seized the vehicle, which they believe was involved in the fatal collision. However, as of Thursday morning, no suspect has been identified.
Denise Womack-Avila, spokesperson for the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, emphasized that investigators are actively working on the case but need help from the public. “We’re hoping someone will come forward with more information,” Womack-Avila said, appealing to anyone with knowledge about the suspect or the vehicle to come forward.
Monique Maes was a well-known figure in Santa Fe. Bill Sanchez, a close friend of the Maes family, expressed his grief, stating that Maes’ death was not just a loss for her family, but for the entire community. “She was just so loved by so many people,” Sanchez said, his voice filled with emotion. “It’s a real tragedy. She had such a bright personality, always full of energy and kindness.” Sanchez recalled how Maes’ warmth and positivity made her a central figure among her friends, noting that she was gregarious and had deep roots in the community. The impact of her loss will undoubtedly be felt for years to come, he added.
This heartbreaking incident has sparked widespread concern and conversations about pedestrian safety in the Santa Fe area. The rural roads where the incident took place are often dimly lit, and this stretch, in particular, is known for being relatively quiet, with few sidewalks. Local officials have been urged to reassess the safety measures along such roads, especially as pedestrian accidents in semi-rural and suburban areas are becoming an increasing issue nationwide. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), pedestrian fatalities have risen by over 50% in the last decade across the United States, with hit-and-run incidents accounting for a growing percentage of these tragic deaths.
The lack of street lighting and pedestrian infrastructure in many parts of Santa Fe’s outskirts has been a concern for some time. Local residents and advocates for road safety have previously called for more traffic-calming measures and better street designs to protect pedestrians, especially in areas frequented by families. This incident has once again brought those concerns to the forefront, urging local authorities to take action before another tragedy occurs.
Maes’ family, now left to cope with an unimaginable loss, has received an outpouring of support from the community. Friends and neighbors have rallied around them, offering condolences and assistance during this difficult time. A memorial is expected to be set up in Maes’ honor in the coming days, allowing loved ones and the wider community to pay their respects and celebrate her life.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office continues to ask for any witnesses or those with relevant information about the incident to come forward. As the investigation unfolds, Maes’ family and friends, along with the wider community, are left grappling with the sudden and senseless nature of her death, hoping that justice will be served for the woman they all held so dear.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.