Trapper James Cearley Dies in Tragic Crash on Standpipe Road [Carlsbad, NM]

Carlsbad, NM (June 13, 2025) — A hit-and-run crash in Carlsbad claimed the life of 19-year-old Trapper James Cearley, and authorities are asking the public for help identifying the driver involved.

According to investigators, Cearley was riding a minibike south on Standpipe Road when a vehicle struck him sometime after 11:30 p.m. on June 7 in the 3700 block of the roadway. He was later found deceased at the scene.

After reviewing surveillance footage and conducting an investigation, police identified the suspect vehicle as a light-colored Ford F-250 or F-350 flatbed pickup equipped with a headache rack and auxiliary lights. Authorities believe the truck may have front-end damage, paint transfer, and undercarriage damage consistent with the collision.

Investigators determined that the vehicle traveled southbound through the 1100 block of Pate Street shortly before the crash, continued onto Church Street, and eventually reached Standpipe Road.

Police are urging residents and business owners to check surveillance footage recorded between 11:45 p.m. and midnight on June 7. Anyone with information or video evidence is encouraged to contact the Carlsbad Police Department or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

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Sweet Lawyers extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Trapper James Cearley during this difficult time. We hope those with information about the crash come forward to assist investigators and help bring answers to his loved ones.

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