Teen Faces Charges After Crashing Car With Bus in Albuquerque

Savanna Tafoya, 18, allegedly made an illegal U-turn and fled the scene after the collision.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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An 18-year-old Albuquerque woman is facing multiple charges, including DWI and leaving the scene of an accident, after she allegedly caused a crash between her car and a city bus while driving drunk. The incident occurred on Saturday when Savanna Tafoya made an illegal U-turn on Central Avenue and 63rd Street, resulting in her car being hit by the bus. Tafoya then reportedly fled the scene, claiming the bus driver told her to do so, but authorities say the bus driver did not speak to her. No injuries were reported.

Why it matters

Drunk driving incidents and hit-and-run crashes are ongoing public safety concerns in Albuquerque, which has struggled with high rates of both. This case highlights the need for continued enforcement and education around the dangers of impaired driving, as well as the potential legal consequences drivers can face for fleeing the scene of an accident.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Savanna Tafoya, 18, made an illegal U-turn on Central Avenue and 63rd Street in Albuquerque, causing her car to be hit by a city bus. Tafoya then allegedly fled the scene, claiming the bus driver told her to do so. However, a City of Albuquerque spokesperson stated the bus driver did not speak to Tafoya. Police arrested Tafoya, who they say smelled of alcohol, and she now faces charges including DWI and leaving the scene of an accident.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, February 15, 2026.

The players

Savanna Tafoya

An 18-year-old Albuquerque resident who was arrested and charged with DWI and leaving the scene of an accident.

City of Albuquerque

The local government entity that operates the city bus involved in the crash.

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What they’re saying

“The bus driver did not speak to Tafoya.”

— City of Albuquerque spokesperson (KRQE)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Savanna Tafoya to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges Albuquerque faces with drunk driving and hit-and-run crashes, and the need for continued vigilance and enforcement to protect public safety on the city's roads.