Kayenta, Arizona — A tragic incident marred the Christmas spirit for a community on the Navajo Nation when an allegedly drunk driver collided with a crowd attending a holiday parade on December 22. The crash killed a three-year-old boy and left three others injured, highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving in the area.
At around 5:10 p.m., just before the parade’s start, 67-year-old Stanley Begay Jr. drove into a gathering of spectators along Navajo Route 591, close to the Kayenta Rodeo Grounds. The young victim, identified as Karson Apodaca, was remembered fondly by family members. Among the injured are a teenager in critical condition and a pregnant woman, leaving the community in shock and mourning.
Begay was quickly apprehended at the scene and is currently facing charges of homicide by vehicle. His arraignment is set for January 13, 2026. If convicted, he faces a maximum of one year in prison and a fine up to $5,000 under Navajo law.
In addition to the tragedy affecting attendees, the crash also caused damage to several vehicles and properties in the vicinity. The investigation is being led by the Navajo Nation Police Department, with assistance from the FBI and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation, as they uncover the full circumstances surrounding the event.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed heartache over the incident, emphasizing that the parade was intended to bring joy and unity to the community. “No one should have to experience tragedy during a season meant for love and togetherness,” he noted in a social media message.
The community held a vigil on Christmas Eve to honor Karson, and a fundraising campaign has since garnered over $35,000 to assist his family with counseling and medical expenses during this difficult time.
Crystalyne Curley, the speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, shared her condolences, stating that such celebrations should be safe spaces for families. “We pray for healing, strength, and recovery for all those impacted,” she said in a solemn statement.
Despite strict prohibitions against alcohol on the Navajo Nation, incidents involving impaired drivers still occur. The Navajo Police Department strongly encourages residents to intervene if they suspect someone may be under the influence, reminding them of the potential consequences an impaired driver poses.
In light of this tragic event, President Nygren expressed gratitude to first responders for their timely action in assisting victims. Authorities have committed to providing further updates as the investigation progresses, underscoring their dedication to community safety during the holiday season and beyond.