Fatal Crash in Pecos County Leads to Arrest of New Mexico Man

On March 21, 2025, a devastating rollover crash occurred in Pecos County, Texas, claiming the life of 35-year-old Manuel Driver Garcia from Ft. Stockton, Texas. The incident took place at approximately 2:30 a.m. on North Stone Road, involving a 2023 green Toyota Tacoma driven by 32-year-old Nick Ronnie Armenta of Farmington, New Mexico. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Garcia, a passenger in the vehicle, was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected during the crash, resulting in his death at the scene. Armenta, who initially contacted 911, fled on foot before authorities arrived, prompting an hours-long manhunt in the rural area.

Law enforcement located Armenta near a man camp on Stone Road, close to the crash site, and took him into custody without incident. He was subsequently transported to Pecos County Memorial Hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the accident. Armenta now faces serious charges, including failing to stop and render aid resulting in death—a second-degree felony—and unlawful carrying of a weapon, a Class A misdemeanor.