Fort Bliss soldier charged in deadly El Paso DWI crash that killed engaged couple
The man accused and charged with intoxication manslaughter after the deadly crash in east El Paso on Saturday where a couple died is a Fort Bliss soldier.
The accused intoxicated driver was identified as 23-year-old Juan Francisco Del Valle Ferrer.
Fort Bliss officials said Del Valle Ferrer is assigned to the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.
Below is the statement from Fort Bliss:
The Fort Bliss leadership is deeply saddened by this tragedy and its impact on the El Paso community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those involved in the accident," said Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commanding general of the 1st Armored Division and Fort Bliss. "We remain committed to a robust driver education program focused on responsible driving habits that begins the first week Soldiers arrive to Fort Bliss. We will continue frequent safety checks across the installation to encourage safe driving practices and promote ridesharing opportunities. We remain engaged with community leaders and local law enforcement to improve the safety of the Fort Bliss and El Paso communities.According to the El Paso County Sheriff's Office, 28-year-old Dalia Olivas and her fiancé 29-year-old Rick Ballard died after a crash on the intersection of Rojas and Eastlake.
The arrest affidavit stated Rick Ballard who was in the Mercedes had been ejected from the vehicle and his right leg severed and still in the vehicle from the impact of the crash. He died at the scene.
Olivas who was the passenger was taken to the hospital where she died.
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Responding deputies smelled an odor of alcohol emitting from Del Valle Ferrer. When the emergency responders asked Del Valler Ferrer how much he had to drink, he responded "a lot" prior to passing out.
The document stated Del Valle Ferrer had a baby blue wristband from a gender reveal party.
Del Valle Ferrer has been charged with two counts of intoxication manslaughter.
