By Roger Lanse

New Mexico State Police were dispatched on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2020, at about 10 a.m., to a single car crash on Highway 35 near MM 20. Officers determined that James Hukill, 50, of Mimbres, was driving at a high rate of speed and crashed his black 2017 Volkswagen into a tree. Further investigation revealed Hukill to be intoxicated.

According to NMSP, a medical helicopter was dispatched to the scene, but Hukill refused it and was transported to GRMC via ground ambulance.

Officers arrested Hukill, NMSP told the Beat, and charged him with DWI, no seatbelt, and careless driving. He was released on his own recognizance to receive medical care and was summoned into court for the aforementioned charges.