On a dark summer evening in June or July 1972, Hilda McAfee and her elderly mother reportedly encountered a bright blue light while driving west on Interstate 10, about twenty-three miles east of Deming, New Mexico. The exact day and even the month were uncertain in the later investigation.
The women said that the light concealed the outline of a large object occupying their lane. As they passed, they saw two robust humanlike figures beneath it, wearing helmets, gloves, boots, and full protective suits. Dark rod-like structures were nearby. The figures appeared occupied with work and did not approach the women.
Patti Morris investigated after Raymond Jordan obtained a lead during later casework; an account appeared in the APRO Bulletin. Some compilations give the witness surname as McKay. Because the light obscured the object's shape, the illustration leaves it indistinct. The observation does not by itself distinguish an unconventional aircraft and crew from an extraterrestrial interpretation.
Film gives June/July1952 while Atlas/source investigation gives uncertain June/July1972. Named witnesses, precise road location and work/rod sequence establish story identity despite year conflict. Preserve1972 qualification and unresolved object outline; no demonstrated extraterrestrial origin.
