An allegedly intoxicated driver plowed into a crowd gathered for a Christmas parade on the Navajo Nation in Kayenta, Arizona, on December 22, 2025, killing a three-year-old child and injuring three others. The incident occurred at approximately 5:10 p.m. along Navajo Route 591 near Kayenta Rodeo Grounds, before the parade was scheduled to begin.
The driver, identified as 67-year-old Stanley Begay Jr., struck four people after entering the parade route where bystanders were waiting. The deceased child was identified by the family as Karson Apodaca. Among the injured was a young person who remains in critical condition, Karson’s pregnant mother, and Karson’s grandfather, according to Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren.
Begay was arrested at the scene and transported to the Department of Corrections. He has been charged with homicide by vehicle, with an arraignment scheduled for January 13, 2026. Under Navajo law, the maximum sentence for homicide by vehicle is one year in prison and a maximum fine of $5,000.
The driver also damaged several vehicles and nearby property during the incident. The Navajo Nation Police Department, the FBI, and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigation are conducting an ongoing investigation into the crash.
“This event was meant to bring joy, unity, and holiday spirit to our community—and is a time for families to come together and celebrate,” Nygren said in a social media post. “No one should have to experience tragedy during a season meant for love and togetherness.”
Kayenta, located about 300 miles northeast of Phoenix, is a community in the north-central Navajo Nation. The community held a vigil on Christmas Eve to mourn the loss. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $39,000 to provide counseling and financial support for Karson’s loved ones as they heal emotionally and medically.
Crystalyne Curley, speaker of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, addressed the incident in a statement on Facebook. “On behalf of the 25th Navajo Nation Council, I extend our deepest prayers to the individuals and families affected by the tragic incident at the Christmas parade,” she said. “Community events such as these are meant to be safe spaces where families gather to celebrate, especially during the holiday season. We pray for healing, strength, and recovery for all those impacted.”
Alcohol is prohibited on the Navajo Nation for both possession and consumption, with limited exceptions. Despite these restrictions, drivers continue to be arrested for driving under the influence across the reservation.
In a statement, the Navajo Police Department urged residents to take action when they see someone who may be impaired.
President Nygren expressed gratitude to the first responders who acted swiftly to help the victims in the crash. He said authorities will provide updates as more verified information becomes available from the ongoing investigation.