Soldier Injured After Fall From Vehicle Late Friday Night

By Doug Wernet

EL PASO — A Fort Bliss soldier was injured late Friday night after a vehicle accident, some officials are saying he fell from a pick up, others are saying an ATV was involved.

The incident happened along the 17000-block of Montana Ave. near the Redsands area of Montana Vista.

An official with Fort Bliss said the soldier, who was only identified as a young man, fell off an ATV while riding in the desert areas near Montana Vista.

He was listed in serious condition at William Beaumont Army Medical Center Saturday, but the full extent of his injuries was not released.

The area where the incident occurred is known for its popularity with ATV riders, with some vehicles able to reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.

Riders said the All-Terrain Vehicles overturn and tumble frequently; that coupled with their 500-pound weight often make injuries extreme if not fatal.Martin Ureno, a rider himself,believes crashes and collisions are inevitable given the number of enthusiasts who frequent the redsands area.

“There’s been a lot of bad news out here. Kids with broken ribs and broken arms and legs; you get a broke arm and leg almost every weekend. It doesn’t amaze me that much, it’s something that can happen and does happen,” Ureno said.

Officials are still investigating and more information will be available as it is released.