79-Year-Old Jose Martinez Dead in NM 76 Collision [Santa Fe, NM]

Santa Fe, NM (May 8, 2026) – A 79-year-old pedestrian, Jose Martinez, from Chimayó, was fatally injured following a NM 76 collision early Friday morning.

Troopers said Martinez was hit by a pickup truck  driven by 50-year-old Marty Sherwood near the intersection with County Road 1430.

Police responded to the scene past 3 a.m. and declared the victim dead. 

According to the investigators, a Ford Ranger struck Martinez and continued driving eastward on N.M. 76.

Moreover, a witness stated that the driver pulled into a driveway down the road, inspected their pickup, and drove down the highway. 

The authorities later found the pickup parked in a driveway, with Sherwood inside the house.

Police said Sherwood told them he was driving along the highway and believed he had struck a dog.

Sherwood was arrested on charges of failing to provide information and render aid in a crash causing great bodily harm as well as knowingly leaving the scene of an accident.

---

Sweet Lawyers extends heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Jose Martinez. No family should endure the loss of a young child, and we hope they find comfort and support during this deeply painful time.

---

Finding Strength and Justice After a Tragic Loss

Losing someone you love in a sudden accident is one of life’s most painful experiences. Beyond the heartbreak, families are often left facing emotional, practical, and financial challenges — from medical bills and funeral costs to the loss of companionship and financial support.

In times like these, it’s important to know that you have options. Filing a wrongful death claim can help bring justice to your loved one’s memory and provide much-needed financial support for those left behind.

A wrongful death claim can help families recover compensation for:

Funeral and burial expenses
Medical costs from the victim’s final care
Lost income and future financial support
Emotional suffering and loss of companionship

This legal process is about more than money — it’s about accountability. Whether the crash was caused by reckless driving, intoxication, or negligence, holding the at-fault party responsible helps ensure that similar tragedies are less likely to happen again.

While no legal action can ever replace the person you’ve lost, seeking justice can bring a sense of closure and peace to grieving families. It’s one way to honor your loved one’s life and legacy.

At Sweet Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our team of wrongful death and personal injury attorneys has decades of experience helping families find answers, justice, and the financial support they need to move forward.

You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll handle the legal challenges so you can focus on healing and being with those who matter most.

If your loved one lost their life in a car accident, call Sweet Lawyers at (800) 674-7852. for a free, confidential consultation.

You will be provided with compassionate legal support when you need it most.

We’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, ready to listen, guide, and fight for the justice your family deserves.