A Caldwell teenager is facing a first-degree murder charge in connection with the death of a 19-year-old Caldwell woman who was struck by a vehicle in Nampa, Idaho. Nampa Police have identified the suspect as Alissa Mae Huerta, 18, and the victim as Jade Aliyah Ramirez, 19, who later died from her injuries at a local hospital.
What Investigators Found
Nampa Police say the evidence gathered during their investigation indicates Huerta deliberately drove a vehicle into Ramirez — a finding that elevated the charge to first-degree murder rather than a lesser vehicular offense. Investigators have not released details on the location of the incident within Nampa or what preceded the confrontation, but the severity of the charge signals that authorities believe the act was intentional, not accidental.
Ramirez was transported to a local hospital following the incident but did not survive her injuries. Her death has prompted an ongoing investigation by the Nampa Police Department.
Arrest Made Without Incident
Officers took Huerta into custody just before 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The arrest was made without incident, and Huerta was transported to the Canyon County Jail, where she is being held on the first-degree murder charge. Canyon County, which includes both Nampa and Caldwell, has seen a string of serious violent crimes in recent months. The death of Ramirez marks another tragic incident in the Treasure Valley community.
Both Huerta and Ramirez were Caldwell residents, making this a case with deep roots in the Canyon County community, even though the fatal incident occurred in neighboring Nampa. Investigators have not publicly disclosed the relationship, if any, between the two women or what circumstances led to the encounter.
Impact on Canyon County Residents
For families across Caldwell, Nampa, and the broader Canyon County area, the case is a sobering reminder of how quickly violence can claim a young life. Ramirez was just 19 years old — a Caldwell resident with her life ahead of her. Huerta, also a young adult at 18, now faces one of the most serious criminal charges under Idaho law.
First-degree murder under Idaho statute carries severe penalties, including the possibility of life in prison. The case will likely proceed through the Canyon County court system as the investigation continues to develop. Cases involving vehicular homicide charged as first-degree murder are rare and typically require investigators to establish clear evidence of premeditation or intentional conduct — which Nampa Police say they have found here.
Violent crime cases of this nature put added pressure on Canyon County’s law enforcement and judicial resources. Local authorities, including the Nampa Police Department and Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, continue to work to keep the Treasure Valley safe. The Caldwell Police Department has recently expanded its camera registry program to help speed crime investigations, an example of the proactive steps area agencies are taking to improve public safety response times and evidence gathering.
What Comes Next
The Nampa Police Department says its investigation into the circumstances of Ramirez’s death is ongoing. Detectives are actively seeking witnesses or anyone with information about the incident. Members of the public who may have seen something relevant are encouraged to contact Nampa Police at 208-468-5633.
As the case moves forward, Huerta will face proceedings in the Canyon County court system. The community is watching closely, and additional details — including the exact location and timeline of the incident — may emerge as the investigation progresses and any court hearings are scheduled.
Anyone with information that could assist investigators is urged to call Nampa Police at 208-468-5633. Tips can play a critical role in building a complete picture of what happened and ensuring justice for Jade Aliyah Ramirez and her family.
For additional statewide coverage of public safety and law enforcement news across Idaho, visit Idaho News.