Peds ER Nurse Killed by Car, Driver Charged

In October, pediatric emergency room nurse Alec Montoya, 28, was trying to cross the street outside of the University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) when he was hit by a speeding car. The driver, Brian Boyce, 42, has been indicted on new charges. 

Charges include:

• Homicide by vehicle
• Possession of an open container

Montoya was headed into work, crossing Lomas Blvd., and was pronounced dead at the hospital. At the time of the accident, Boyce stayed on scene and was taken to the hospital for minor injuries. After fleeing the hospital, he was arrested by police later that evening. He had called his girlfriend from the hospital, asking to be picked up. She complied, but Boyce never told her what happened. She is fully cooperating with the ongoing police investigation. 

 

Source: Bernalillo County DA Sam Bregman Facebook

Following the initial arrest, Boyce was charged with fleeing the scene of an accident. However, the defense team argued that he fled the hospital rather than the accident. After examining the evidence, a Bernalillo County judge released Boyce, finding insufficient evidence. 

A Life Remembered

Montoya, despite having worked in the ER for only three years, was fondly remembered by his coworkers. Originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico, Montoya enjoyed going to the gym, playing Fortnite, and traveling with his long-term partner, Brianna. He was remembered for his dedication and passion for caring for children. 

 

Source: UNM Hospital Instagram

“But taking away the tears, the thought that he left this world on the way to save lives just emulates who he is,” said Joslin Hausser, a friend and coworker of Montoya.

After graduating from the University of New Mexico in 2023, Montoya found his true passion in helping children. Originally, he wanted to become a firefighter, but found his true purpose in nursing.  “He loved interacting with all of the patients from like little babies that would be giggling at him, or he worked really well with like the teens that were sometimes in crisis or having moments where they’re a little bit more erratic,” said Eli Giles, another coworker.

 

Source: Instagram

Boyce currently remains behind bars and is awaiting trial.

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