Albuquerque Man Pleads Guilty in Fatal Hit-and-Run
Brandon Rafool entered a guilty plea for charges stemming from a deadly 2025 collision.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Accidents
Brandon Rafool pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of an accident and tampering with evidence following a fatal crash in Albuquerque. The August 2025 incident at San Pedro Dr. and Menaul Blvd. resulted in the death of 37-year-old passenger Kaitlin Reese.
Why it matters
The plea brings a resolution to the legal proceedings surrounding a collision that claimed a life and left another motorcyclist injured. Authorities successfully identified the suspect after tracking his black truck using local license plate readers.
Brandon Rafool pleaded guilty to charges of leaving the scene of an accident and tampering with evidence. The case proceeds to a future sentencing hearing following his formal admission of guilt in court.
The players
Brandon Rafool
He is the defendant who pleaded guilty to charges related to a fatal hit-and-run accident in Albuquerque.
Kaitlin Reese
She was a 37-year-old motorcycle passenger who died as a result of the collision.
The details
The crash involved a black truck driven by Rafool that collided with a motorcycle at the intersection of San Pedro Dr. and Menaul Blvd. Police eventually located and arrested Rafool after receiving a tip regarding his whereabouts.
Timeline
The fatal hit-and-run crash occurred in August 2025.
Brandon Rafool entered his guilty plea on October 30, 2026.
Legal Context
This case reflects the ongoing application of New Mexico hit-and-run statutes to hold drivers accountable for fleeing the scene of fatal crashes. It highlights how forensic tools like license plate readers assist in the prosecution of such offenses within the city.
Local residents in the area of San Pedro Dr. and Menaul Blvd. may see continued police efforts to monitor high-traffic intersections for reckless driving. The resolution of this case serves as a reminder of the legal consequences for failing to remain at the scene of a crash.
The takeaway
Drivers are reminded that leaving the scene of an accident results in severe criminal charges beyond the initial collision. Community members can assist law enforcement by providing tips when they possess information regarding vehicular crimes.
Further reading
For more information on regional safety incidents, visit the Albuquerque accidents section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KRQE 13.
