Santa Fe County officials confirmed that a tragic water‑related accident claimed the life of Isabelle Beulaygue on Saturday evening. The incident occurred around 7:50 p.m. when a vehicle carrying two adults and a child attempted to cross an arroyo near the intersection of Paseo de la Tierra and Vuelta Chamisa.
Rapid water forces vehicle downstream
According to a spokesperson for the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, the arroyo’s swift running water overwhelmed the vehicle, carrying it downstream. The adult male passenger was able to exit the vehicle with the child and reach dry ground. The adult female passenger, identified as Isabelle Beulaygue, was swept away by the current.
Rescue efforts and outcome
Santa Fe County and City fire departments responded quickly, launching a rescue operation to locate and retrieve Beulaygue. Despite their efforts, she was not found until water levels receded, approximately a mile downstream from the original vehicle location. She was later pronounced dead at the scene.
The male adult and child were unharmed and received medical evaluation after the rescue. The incident marks one of five swift‑water rescues that county emergency personnel responded to over the weekend, highlighting the hazards of attempting to cross dry riverbeds after recent rains.
Safety reminder
County officials urge residents to exercise caution when navigating arroyos and other water‑filled channels, especially after periods of heavy rain. Even seemingly shallow water can become dangerous and move vehicles or pedestrians with little warning.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident and will provide additional information as it becomes available.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
