3 dead after being swept away by floodwaters on the Navajo Nation

NEWCOMB, N.M. (AP) — Three people are dead after being swept away by floodwaters early Wednesday on the Navajo Nation, authorities said. Tribal police officers received a report around 12:30 a.m. about people being washed away near the community of Newcomb in northwestern New Mexico. The report followed a day of heavy rain that left roadways and other areas flooded with standing water. More rain followed during the overnight hours. Search crews responded and found the bodies of two adults and a child.

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Scoop News DeskNavajo Nation, District of Columbia · Published Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 9:27 PM UTCUpdated Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 9:46 PM UTC

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Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren offered his condolences and thanked first responders for working through the night in difficult and dangerous conditions as they searched for the people. “To the family, relatives, and loved ones who are grieving today, we offer our deepest condolences,” Nygren said in a social media post. “We pray that you are surrounded by strength, comfort, and the love of your family and community in the difficult days ahead.” The National Weather Service in Albuquerque issued a special briefing on Tuesday, warning that numerous and widespread thunderstorms were expected over the coming days.