Otero County, NM - On September 16, 2018 at about 5:30 a.m. the New Mexico State Police investigated a fatal crash on US Highway 82 around mile post 11 between Alamogordo and Cloudcroft.

The initial investigation indicated a Hyundai, driven by Jason Clapper (35) of Alamogordo, NM was traveling west on US 82 at a high rate of speed. For unknown reasons the Hyundai left the roadway and rolled. Mr. Clapper, who was wearing his seatbelt, sustained minor injuries and was able to exit the vehicle.

After the crash, while standing in the west bound lane of US 82 in a dark and unlit area, Mr. Clapper was fatally struck by a passing 2013 Chevrolet Aveo. Mr. Clapper was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. The forty-nine-year-old driver of the Chevrolet is not facing any charges at this time and will not be identified.

Alcohol does not appear to be a contributing factor in the fatal collision. The crash is still under investigation and no additional information is currently available. The New Mexico State Police would like to remind drivers and passengers who are involved in a vehicle collision to get off the roadway immediately. Stand as far away from the road as you safely can and behind a barrier if possible.