The Albuquerque community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 65-year-old Mireya Molina Ortiz, who lost her life in a tragic traffic collision on the afternoon of July 23, 2026. What began as an ordinary day ended in unimaginable sorrow for her family, friends, and everyone who has been touched by the devastating news.

According to the New Mexico State Police (NMSP), officers were asked to take over the investigation into the fatal crash at approximately 4:02 p.m. The collision occurred at the intersection of NM-47 and Isleta Lakes Road and involved an Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officer and another motorist.

Preliminary investigators reported that the APD officer was traveling northbound on Highway 47 while responding to a tactical callout with emergency lights and sirens activated. At the same time, a red Honda driven by Mireya Molina Ortiz was traveling southbound and attempting to make a left turn when the police vehicle struck the passenger side of her car.

The impact proved fatal. Despite the response of emergency personnel, Mireya Molina Ortiz was pronounced dead at the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. Her sudden passing has left those who knew and loved her facing an overwhelming loss, while the broader community reflects on how quickly lives can be changed by a single tragic moment.

In an earlier statement, APD Communications Director Gilbert Gallegos explained that officers were responding to assist investigators and that it had not yet become a full SWAT deployment. Meanwhile, New Mexico State Police continue to lead the investigation with assistance from their Vehicular Crimes Unit. Authorities have confirmed that no criminal charges have been filed at this time, and the investigation remains ongoing. Officials have also declined to publicly identify the officer involved because no charges have been brought.