TABC clears bar after deadly West El Paso crash involving alleged drunk 19-year-old

EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — A West El Paso bar has been cleared after an investigation started following a deadly crash and an alleged 19-year-old drunk driver who was drinking in the establishment.

According to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, its investigation into Hope & Anchor has been closed “due to lack of substantiating evidence.”

The investigation had started in April, after 19-year-old Ambar Chavira was arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter with vehicle and collision involving death after investigators said she had been allegedly drinking at Hope & Anchor before she got behind the wheel and, on the 6300 block of North Desert Boulevard, crashed into the back of an SUV, killing 56-year-old Jaime Andrade.

Below is TABC’s full statement:

TABC conducted a source investigation that included Hope and Anchor. The investigation began in April and concluded in July. Following a thorough review, the investigation was closed due to a lack of substantiating evidence.

Following the crash, representatives from Hope & Anchor released a statement writing that the bar had been presented with what appeared to be a valid, government-issued ID on the evening of the crash and that it was cooperating with the investigation.

Hope & Anchor’s statement:

Our hearts go out to the Andrade family. Jaime Andrade was a member of this community, and his loss is a tragedy. Hope and Anchor has been part of the El Paso community for over 16 years. We are a neighborhood bar, and we take our responsibilities as a licensed establishment very seriously. It’s how we have operated since our inception. We are cooperating fully with TABC and stand by our staff’s training, our ID verification protocols, and our legally vetted handbooks. Fake IDs are a persistent challenge facing every licensed establishment in El Paso and across Texas, and we card every guest who appears to be under the age of 30.

According to the affidavit, Chavira admitted to drinking several drinks with her “sugar daddy” at Hope & Anchor.

Investigators also determined that Chavira’s initial crash triggered a chain reaction, so four vehicles were ultimately involved.

Andrade, the victim, was found unresponsive and was taken to University Medical Center, where he died.

Authorities allege that Chavira fled the scene on foot instead of remaining to render aid or provide information, as required by law.

According to the affidavit, Chavira’s mom reported her daughter to police.

Investigators later tracked Chavira to a home on Rosa Gandara Drive, where officers reported that she showed signs of intoxication.

Jail records show Chavira is out after posting bond.

Court records have Chavira’s jury trial scheduled for April 19, 2027.

Tags: