Executive Summary
- Stanley Begay, Jr. was arrested by the FBI on Jan. 13.
- The suspect is accused of drunk driving in a fatal crash on Dec. 22.
- One person died and multiple were injured at the Kayenta Light Parade.
- The FBI is seeking further public assistance with the investigation.
Federal authorities have taken Stanley Begay, Jr. into custody following an investigation into a fatal vehicle collision that occurred during a holiday parade in Kayenta, Arizona. The FBI Phoenix Field Office announced that the arrest was executed on January 13, marking a significant development in the weeks-long inquiry.
According to reports filed by the Navajo Nation Police, the incident took place on December 22 during the Kayenta Light Parade. Authorities allege that Begay plowed a vehicle into a crowd of bystanders attending the festive event. The collision resulted in one confirmed fatality and caused injuries to multiple other individuals at the scene.
Federal officials have identified Begay as a drunk driving suspect in relation to the deadly crash. While the suspect is now in federal custody, the FBI Phoenix Field Office has indicated that the investigation remains active and is seeking further assistance from the public to gather additional details regarding the events leading up to the tragedy.
Investigative Outlook
The involvement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation underscores the federal jurisdiction often invoked for major crimes committed within tribal lands in the United States. As prosecutors and investigators work to solidify the timeline and evidence regarding the alleged intoxication and vehicular operation, the case will likely proceed through the federal court system. It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
