ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – A tragic shooting unfolded Sunday evening at an O’Reilly Auto Parts store in southwest Albuquerque, leaving two employees dead and a community in shock. The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) reported that deputies were called to the store, located at 2712 Sunshine West Plaza Drive SW near Coors Boulevard and Blake Road, around 5:12 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire.
When law enforcement arrived, they discovered one employee dead inside the store. A second victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but sadly died shortly after. Authorities later identified the victims as 47-year-old Richard Newman and 18-year-old Jesus Valdez, both of whom worked at the auto parts store. Officials said the violent attack has devastated families, coworkers, and the local community, who are struggling to make sense of the tragedy.
Deputies arrested 27-year-old Ismael Rene Tena in connection with the shooting. He now faces two counts of murder. Investigators are working to determine the motive behind the deadly confrontation, though details remain limited. Authorities said they are pursuing every lead to fully understand the sequence of events that led to the fatal gunfire.
The shocking incident has sparked broader concerns about workplace safety. Local officials have emphasized the importance of preventive measures and community vigilance to help reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future. BCSO also encouraged the public to share any information that could assist investigators, stressing that witness accounts and tips can be crucial in building a clear picture of what happened.
As the investigation continues, authorities have promised to provide updates as new details emerge. Meanwhile, support has poured in for the families of Newman and Valdez. Community members have expressed grief and solidarity, offering condolences and assistance during what officials described as an “unimaginable loss.” The sudden violence has highlighted how quickly ordinary settings can turn into scenes of tragedy.
Both Newman, remembered for his dedication and experience, and Valdez, whose young life was just beginning, are being mourned by loved ones, coworkers, and the wider Albuquerque community. Their deaths serve as a painful reminder of the impact of gun violence and the lasting scars it leaves behind. For now, residents are left grieving while awaiting answers in the ongoing investigation.