Shiprock Woman Sentenced for Drunk Driving Crash that Killed Grandchild

ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman was sentenced to five years in prison for a tragic rollover accident in Shiprock, New Mexico which resulted in the death of her young granddaughter and serious injuries to another.

There is no parole in the federal system.

According to court documents, on July 1, 2021, Evelyn Bustamante, 60, drove her grandchildren from Shiprock and Farmington. Neither of the children were properly restrained in seatbelts or car seats. Around 3:00 PM, Bustamante lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll over and eject all three occupants.

First responders rushed the trio to the Northern Navajo Medical Center where Bustamante admitted to consuming alcohol and methamphetamine earlier that day. Toxicology tests confirmed the presence of these substances in her system.

Jane Doe 1 suffered severe head trauma and was placed on a ventilator at the University of New Mexico Hospital. After five days, she succumbed to her injuries. Jane Doe 2 sustained a skull fracture and subdural hemorrhage but has since recovered.

Bustamante suffered multiple injuries, including lacerations and fractures, and underwent reconstructive surgery on her hand.

Upon her release from prison, Bustamante will be subject to three years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, made the announcement today.

The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and New Mexico State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew J. McGinley is prosecuting the case.

# # #