Legal Action Following Kayenta Parade Tragedy
Prosecutors from the Navajo Nation have formally charged a 67-year-old individual with homicide by vehicle, relating to a fatal occurrence at the Kayenta Light Parade. The incident, which took place on the evening of December 22, 2025, resulted in the death of a young Navajo child aged three.
The accused, identified as Stanley Begay Jr., a resident of the Kayenta area, faces allegations of operating a vehicle that entered a gathering of parade attendees on foot, leading to the child's demise. These charges were submitted to the Kayenta Judicial District Court.
An attorney-prosecutor from the Major Crimes Unit, serving temporarily as the acting Kayenta District prosecutor, initiated the filing. The complaint cites a violation of statute 14 N.N.C. § 703.
Following the event, authorities acted promptly to examine the location, assess collected evidence, and work with police agencies to maintain the suspect's detention while preparing legal documents. This coordination involved the Kayenta Navajo Police Department, the Kayenta Department of Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, ensuring the charge was lodged before the court's weekly recess.
Begay remains in custody with an arraignment set for January 13, 2026, the next available court date. Prosecutors have additionally requested through a motion under Rule 15(d) of the Navajo Rules of Criminal Procedure that he be detained without release pending the case's resolution. If approved and absent a federal indictment under the Major Crimes Act, he will stay in tribal custody throughout the proceedings.
Under Navajo legal statutes, the maximum penalty for a vehicular homicide conviction is one year of incarceration and a financial penalty of $5,000. This sentencing limit exists as the Navajo Nation has not implemented enhanced sentencing authority available under the Tribal Law and Order Act of 2010.
"Nevertheless, a conviction in Navajo Nation District Court is still a conviction, with real and enforceable consequences under Navajo law," stated Chief Prosecutor Vernon L. Jackson Sr. "Our courts exercise lawful authority, and this matter will proceed consistent with Navajo law and applicable jurisdiction."
It is important to note that the charge represents an allegation, and Begay is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in the Kayenta Judicial District Court.
