Alcohol suspected in traffic fatality, police say

LAKEWOOD – One woman is dead and another is in the hospital suspected of driving under the influence after a Tuesday night traffic accident, according to police.

Lakewood police said Amalia P. Santana-Lopez, 45, was pronounced dead at an area hospital shortly after the 9:30 p.m. accident at the intersection of West Bayaud Avenue and South Sheridan Boulevard.

Investigators believe the Ford Escort Santana-Lopez was driving was hit by a Chevrolet Blazer driven by Tracey Armijo. 37. Police spokesman Steve Davis said investigators believe Armijo was northbound on Sheridan when her SUV drifted into the southbound lane, colliding with the victim’s car.

Armijo was hospitalized for treatment of injuries she received in the accident. There were no passengers in either vehicle, Davis said.

The accident remains under investigation while the exact cause is being determined.

“Investigators must wait for tests results before making a final determination but feel that alcohol may have been a factor,” Davis said.

Armijo could face possible charges of driving under the influence, vehicular homicide, careless driving resulting in death and driving with a suspended license, according to police.

When released from the hospital she will appear in Jefferson County Court, Davis said.