UPDATE: Head-on collision between Hatch and Deming kills 2 women

Two women were killed and one man received critical injuries in two-vehicle crash that shut down N.M. Highway 26 between Deming and Hatch Saturday morning according to New Mexico State Police.

A state police spokeswoman said two vehicles crashed head-on about 5:30 a.m. The driver and front passenger of one of the vehicles were the two women, who both died at the scene. Police identified the women as 33-year-old Lourdes Vacio, of Hatch, New Mexico and 12-year-old Janelly Lizette Vacio. Lourdes Vacio was Janelly’s mother.

Initial reports showed two males were taken to the hospital. ABC-7 has learned only one male was taken to Mimbres Memorial Medical Center in Deming, New Mexio, and was later flown in critical condition to University Medical Center in El Paso.

State police said alcohol is not believed to have been a factor in the crash, and all the passengers are believed to have been wearing seat belts. The crash remains under investigation

Original story:

Two women were killed in two-vehicle crash that shut down N.M. Highway 26 between Deming and Hatch on Saturday morning, New Mexico State Police said.

State Police said two vehicles crashed head-on about 5:30 a.m., adding that two female occupants were killed, one male occupant was flown to El Paso and one male occupant was taken by ambulance to Mimbres Hospital in Deming.

None of the victims’ ages were released.

Officials with the New Mexico Department of Transportation told ABC-7 on Saturday morning that the highway was closed, “due to a very serious multi-vehicle accident.” Highway 26 remained closed at 2 p.m.

Officials urge drivers heading to that area to reduce speed, obey posted signs, watch for emergency vehicles and use extreme caution, adding that there could be significant delays.

Details on the crash are limited at this time. Look for updates on line at kvia.com. ABC-7 will also post update on its Facebook and Twitter pages.