Eagle County deputies uncovered a major haul of illegal drugs on October 16, netting over 145 pounds in two separate traffic stops along I-70.

The first bust happened early in the morning, around 8:30 a.m., near mile marker 147. What started as a routine traffic stop quickly escalated when the driver’s behavior raised alarms.

At one point, he allegedly reached for an officer’s firearm, prompting deputies to release K-9 Zane.

The trusty dog’s keen senses led to the discovery of over seven pounds of cocaine, 2.5 pounds of suspected M30 fentanyl pills, and nearly three pounds of purple fentanyl—dangerous substances often disguised as prescription pills.

Authorities identified the driver as 33-year-old Miguel Angel Del Rio Gomez from Indianapolis, who now faces a slew of serious charges, including unlawful distribution and possession of controlled substances like cocaine and fentanyl.

Later that afternoon, K-9 Zane struck again. At about 3:15 p.m., deputies stopped a pickup truck near mile marker 140 for several violations.

Zane’s alert led to the discovery of a staggering 132.78 pounds of methamphetamine hidden in the vehicle.

The driver, 59-year-old Carlos Garces from Minneapolis, was arrested on similar felony charges involving the distribution and possession of meth.

Both suspects face severe penalties for their alleged roles in trafficking these highly dangerous drugs.

The Eagle County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone with additional information to reach out via their tip line or Crime Stoppers for a chance to receive a cash reward.

These busts highlight the ongoing battle against drug trafficking, where even a routine traffic stop can reveal the alarming scale of illegal activity crossing state lines.

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