Fatal Shooting at UNM Claims Life of Teenager, Suspect Arrested
A 14-year-old boy was fatally shot at the University of New Mexico's Casas del Rio student housing complex on Friday, July 25, 2025. A 19-year-old male was also wounded in the incident but is expected to survive. An 18-year-old male suspect has been apprehended by U.S. Marshals in Los Lunas, approximately 25 minutes south of the university.
Incident Timeline: From Initial Alarm to Arrest
The series of events unfolded rapidly, beginning in the early morning hours. Here’s a detailed timeline:
- 1:36 a.m.: Police responded to an alarm at the Casas del Rio dorm building, discovering broken windows and blood.
- Approximately 3:00 a.m.: The University of New Mexico Police Department (UNMPD) received the first report of gunshots fired at the student housing complex.
- Just before 3:30 a.m.: The university issued an initial alert about the shooting to the campus community.
- Approximately 2:30 a.m.: A 19-year-old male with a gunshot wound arrived at a local hospital, reporting he had been shot on campus.
- Following a sweep of the buildings: Police discovered the deceased 14-year-old inside one of the dorm rooms.
- 3:45 a.m.: The New Mexico State Police took over the lead in the investigation.
- Just after 6:00 a.m.: Another alert was dispatched, instructing people to shelter in place as the investigation continued.
- Late Friday afternoon/4:00 p.m.: University officials lifted the shelter-in-place order, although the main campus remained closed for further investigation.
- 2:30 p.m.: The suspect was taken into custody by U.S. Marshals.
Details Emerge: Video Games Preceded Shooting
According to New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler, preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect and the two victims, along with another individual, were in a dorm room playing video games when the shooting occurred. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation.
Victims Not UNM Students
Authorities have confirmed that neither of the victims was a student at the University of New Mexico. The presence of minors on campus, especially during orientation week, raises questions about campus security and access control.
University Response: Increased Security and Mental Health Support
University President Garnett Stokes expressed deep sorrow and emphasized the university's commitment to the safety and well-being of its community. In response to the tragedy, the university has increased law enforcement presence on campus and is offering mental health services to students, faculty, and staff. The university implemented a "staged, tactical evacuation" of central campus during the active investigation, disrupting campus activities.
Stakeholders Respond: Condolences and Calls for Action
The shooting has prompted reactions from various stakeholders, including Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller, District Attorney Sam Bregman, and State Representative Marianna Anaya. Mayor Keller conveyed his condolences to the victim's family and the university community. State Rep. Marianna Anaya highlighted the tragedy of the incident occurring during new student orientation. District Attorney Sam Bregman has called for legislative action to address violent crime in New Mexico, particularly involving juveniles.
Impact on Campus Community: Fear and Uncertainty
The shooting has understandably caused significant distress and concern among students, particularly new students attending orientation, and their families. The violence has shaken their sense of security on campus and in Albuquerque. The incident has disrupted campus activities and created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.
