Local News
Motorcyclist Isaac Helmstetler killed in crash that closed part of Valley Drive in Las Cruces
LAS CRUCES, N.M. — A motorcyclist has died from injuries sustained in a serious two-vehicle crash that led to road closures and a large emergency response Wednesday afternoon in Las Cruces.
According to the Las Cruces Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. on April 22, 2026, at or near the intersection of Valley Drive and Rigsby Road.
Authorities confirmed that the motorcyclist, identified as Isaac Helmstetler, suffered critical injuries in the collision involving a motorcycle and an automobile.
He was airlifted from the scene to University Medical Center of El Paso for emergency treatment.
Despite medical efforts, Helmstetler later succumbed to his injuries.
The crash prompted the temporary closure of Valley Drive between Avenida de Mesilla and Boutz Road, as well as portions of Rigsby Road near the intersection, while first responders worked the scene and investigators gathered evidence.
Details regarding the cause of the crash have not yet been released, and the incident remains under active investigation.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or may have additional information to contact the Las Cruces Police Department at (575) 526-0795.
Local News
Two Experienced Skydivers Levi Pimentel and Georgia Jean Killed in Midair Collision Near Lake Elsinore
LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. — Two experienced skydivers have died following a tragic midair collision near Lake Elsinore in Southern California after their parachutes became tangled during their final approach to the landing area.
The victims were identified as Levi Pimentel, 29, of Illinois, and Georgia Jean, 56, of South Dakota. Both women died Friday after the accident near Skydive Elsinore, according to information released by the skydiving company.
Officials with Skydive Elsinore said the collision occurred approximately 160 feet above the ground as the two women were approaching the landing area. Following the impact, their parachutes became entangled, preventing them from completing a safe landing.
Emergency responders were dispatched at approximately 11:47 a.m. and found both women near the airfield suffering from critical injuries. They were transported to Inland Valley Medical Center, where both later died.
Skydive Elsinore described Pimentel and Jean as experienced, licensed skydivers who were familiar with the sport.
According to the company, the freefall portion of the jump appeared to proceed normally. Both women reportedly deployed their parachutes at the expected altitude, and officials said there were no indications of equipment failures.
The company also addressed weather conditions at the time of the accident. Winds were reportedly strong, with gusts reaching approximately 20 mph. However, investigators have not determined whether the wind conditions contributed to the collision.
Skydive Elsinore said it was devastated by the deaths of the two women and extended its condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones.
The fatal accident occurred near Lake Elsinore, a city in Riverside County located approximately 70 miles east of downtown Los Angeles.
The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation, and officials have not established whether weather or other factors played a role in the incident.