Suspect Arrested in Deadly Shooting at University of New Mexico Dorm
An 18-year-old male suspect is in custody following a fatal shooting at the University of New Mexico's (UNM) Albuquerque campus on Friday, July 25, 2025. The shooting, which occurred at the Casas del Rio student housing complex, resulted in the death of a 14-year-old boy and non-life-threatening injuries to a 19-year-old male.
New Mexico State Police apprehended the suspect at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Friday in Los Lunas, with assistance from U.S. Marshals. Authorities have not yet released the identities of the suspect or the victims.
Shooting Details: Video Games Preceded the Violence
According to University of New Mexico Police Department Chief John Silva, the shooting occurred in a dorm room in the Gila building of the Casas del Rio complex. Preliminary investigations suggest that four individuals, including the suspect, were playing video games before the incident. The 14-year-old was fatally shot, prompting the others to flee the scene. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
University Response: Shelter-in-Place and Campus Closure
UNM issued an initial alert regarding the shooting just before 3:30 a.m. on Friday, July 25, followed by a shelter-in-place order shortly after 6:00 a.m. The university's central Albuquerque campus was closed for a significant portion of the day, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of students, many of whom were attending new student orientation. The shelter-in-place order was lifted late Friday afternoon, but the main campus remained closed as the investigation continued.
Ongoing Investigation and Increased Security
The New Mexico State Police have assumed control of the investigation and are collaborating with prosecutors to prepare charging documents. University officials have announced plans for an increased law enforcement presence on campus in the coming days to ensure student safety.
Timeline of Key Events
The events unfolded rapidly on Friday, July 25, 2025:
- Approximately 3:00 a.m.: Gunshots reported at the Casas del Rio dorm.
- Just before 3:30 a.m.: UNM issues an initial alert about the shooting.
- Just after 6:00 a.m.: A shelter-in-place order is issued for the campus.
- Approximately 2:30 p.m.: The suspect is taken into custody.
- Late Friday afternoon: The shelter-in-place order is lifted; however, the main campus remains closed for the investigation.
Context: Orientation and Albuquerque Crime
The shooting occurred during a new student orientation program, with approximately 400 new students residing in the dorms. The city of Albuquerque has been grappling with issues of violent crime, particularly involving juveniles. The start of the fall semester is approximately three weeks away.
Stakeholders Respond to the Tragedy
The shooting has deeply affected numerous stakeholders:
- Victims and their families: Experiencing direct and devastating loss.
- University of New Mexico (UNM) administration, faculty, and staff: Tasked with ensuring campus safety, disseminating information, and offering support to the university community.
- UNM Students: Especially those residing in dorms and participating in new student orientation, are experiencing fear and upheaval.
- Law Enforcement Agencies: Including the University of New Mexico Police Department, New Mexico State Police, U.S. Marshals, and Albuquerque Police Department, are responsible for investigating the crime, maintaining public safety, and making arrests.
- Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller: Has conveyed his condolences and support to the university community.
- District Attorney Sam Bregman: Is advocating for legislative measures to combat juvenile violent crime in New Mexico.
- Local Community: Expressing worry about safety within the city and at the university.
Official Statements and Reactions
University officials announced the lifting of the shelter-in-place order, while confirming that the main campus would remain closed due to the active investigation. UNM President Garnett Stokes addressed a letter to the campus community, acknowledging the distress caused by the event, especially for new students and their families. She also promised an increased law enforcement presence on campus.
New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler confirmed the suspect's arrest and shared details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting, noting that four people, including the suspect, had been playing video games prior to the incident.
Mayor Tim Keller stated, "We are heartbroken by the tragic loss of life that occurred today on the University of New Mexico campus," and expressed his gratitude for the swift arrest of the suspect.
Student Perspectives: Fear and Uncertainty
A freshman attending orientation reported hearing gunshots, witnessing an injured person, and observing others jumping from a dorm window. The student expressed feelings of unease and fear, stating, "It's really sketchy out here. Just being in Albuquerque is really scary."
Public Reaction and Concerns
The shooting has triggered widespread shock and concern among students, faculty, and the broader community. Students have voiced their fear and apprehension, particularly those new to the campus and the city. The incident has raised immediate questions about campus security, especially in dormitories, and the overall safety of students, particularly during orientation periods. The shooting may impact student enrollment, recruitment, and the general perception of safety at UNM.
Broader Implications: Crime and Mental Health
The incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about violent crime in Albuquerque and New Mexico, prompting calls for legislative action to address the issue, especially concerning juvenile crime. The university is providing mental health services to students and community members, acknowledging the distress caused by the tragic event.
