New Mexico State News

KRQE Newsfeed: Guilty verdict, Plea details, Warm Weekend, PNM Assistance fair, Toys for Tots

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:17:14 +0000

Friday's Top Stories

Friday's Five Facts

[1] Jury finds Albuquerque man guilty of murder while he was wearing ankle monitor – Devin Munford was just 18 years old when he shot and killed 22 year old Devon Heyborne over a drug dispute in 2021. Munford was found guilty of all charges including first-degree murder on Thursday, October 18. He will be sentenced within 60 days. At the time of the murder the then 18 year old Munford was already on a GPS monitor and had violated it 113 times.

[2] Details unsealed in plea deal for Taos compound suspect – One of the five people charged in the Taos compound case is now facing 25 years in prison, after accepting a plea deal. Jany Leveille pleaded guilty back in August to supporting terrorists and having a gun while illegally in the United States. Leveille stated that the group was preparing for an attack from the FBI and they were ready to kill agents if needed.

[3] More record-warmth ahead of a strong Fall storm – Friday morning is cool, clear and quiet. High-pressure overhead will lead to a beautiful Friday and weekend. Temperatures will climb back into the 70s and 80s across New Mexico, with near-record and record-warm temperatures today and Saturday. The high will weaken on Sunday, and temperatures will cool a few degrees

[4] PNM hosts free electric bill assistance fair in Albuquerque; October 2023 – PNM will be hosting a free community assitance fair this weekend. PNM will help customers pay their electricity bill. They are encourging customers to bring in their PNM bill, proof of hosuehold income and a past due bill. The New Mexico Gas Company and the Bernaillo County Water Utility Authority will also be there to help residents sturguglign with past due gas and water bills. The event will take place at Albuquerque High Shcool on Saturday, October 21 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

[5] Toys for Tots kicks off the holiday season – Toys for Tots will start their annual toy drive with a Motorcycle run on Sunday, October 22. Bike riders will leave the Walmart near Bernalillo around noon. The drive will highlight the Marine Corps progrom who collect toys and give them out to families in need, free of charge.

Trinity Site planning for increase in visitors after blockbuster movie skyrockets interest

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 13:14:06 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Months after the summer blockbuster "Oppenheimer" raked in millions. The U.S. Army is preparing for a wave of new interest in the Trinty test site this weekend. They're also warning those interested in the tour this year they might be too crowded for everyone to get in.

"We're absolutely going to see more than five thousand, it's just a matter of, I think, only five thousand and something, you know, a little upwards of five thousand is going to be the number of people that can actually get in and get out. I think we are going to see that cut off at 2 p.m., or probably a little before 2 p.m.," said Drew Hamilton, public affairs specialist at White Sands Missile Range public affairs office.

The Saturday tour marks the first time the army has opened the Trinity site since the "Oppenheimer" movie was released in July. Typically, they host around 3,000-4,000 people at each event. With a surge of new interest expected, White Sands is warning that some people might be left out of the tour. "We've only seen that once before in recent history around the 75th anniversary and that was a very busy day for us," said Hamilton.

Preparing for the new crowd they've added new signs and limited wi-fi. Also, two more buses and more cars will be allowed to drive into the base. "The only difference that we have now-a-days is that we recently made the change. Now it is strictly a 'to' and not a 'to and back', so you can get in the caravan, you can drive up to Trinity site with the caravan," said Hamilton.

And for those who can wait to visit, Hamilton said, "We are expecting things to drop off in April and we are encouraging anyone, particularly locals who are trying to decide if they want to go in October or April go ahead and come in April the crowds should be much smaller then."

For those planning to make the trip, White Sands recommends downloading a site brochure before leaving.

Details unsealed in plea deal for Taos compound suspect

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:39:47 +0000

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Jany Leveille, one of the five people charged in connection to a federal raid on a compound in Taos, took a plea deal before the other suspects went to trial. Her plea deal was unsealed by the courts Thursday.

Leveille pled guilty back in August to supporting terrorists and having a gun while illegally in the United States. That was nearly a month before the trial against the other four suspects, Siraj Wahhaj, Hujrah Wahhaj, Subhanah Wahhaj, and Lucas Morton which began on September 25. "This investigation highlighted their interest in the preparation for and desire to conduct attacks on the homeland against innocent people," said FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Amy Kaskel.

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Leveille stated that the group agreed to provide financial support along with guns, ammo, and training to prepare for an attack from the FBI and kill agents if needed. All five left Georgia in December 2017 along with their children. They first went to Alabama so Siraj could abduct his three-year-old son Abdul who was diagnosed with severe developmental disabilities and suffered from frequent seizures. "Depriving him of his medication and medical care that he needed and the loving care of his mother and subjected him to an exhausting regimen of spiritual exorcisms," said United States Attorney Alexander Uballez.

Abdul became ill and died on Christmas Eve in 2017. "Everyone at the compound prayed to Abdul's body, and the children were told that Abdul would be resurrected and come back as Jesus," said Prosecutor John Lovelace in 2018.

Leveille admitted to transporting guns through several states before arriving at their final destination. "The defendants set up a compound in northern New Mexico, governed by their own unique beliefs and practices and began arming themselves for attacks on the government's financial and education institutions," said Uballez.

Those "unique beliefs" were outlined in a book written by Leveille that laid out the rules and practices all the followers were expected to live by. The compound included underground tunnels to escape. That's where federal officials found Abdul's body on his fourth birthday. The compound also had a firing range and tactical training grounds. Siraj Wahhaj and Lucas Morton trained at least two of the children. Leveille said that was in the case of an attack by the FBI.

On August 3, 2018, federal authorities raided the compound. Leveille said Siraj Wahhaj and one of the children armed themselves and were ready to fight until she ordered them to drop their guns. Authorities found guns, ammo, eleven malnourished children, and the remains of Abdul.

Leveille is facing up to 25 years in prison. She also admitted to missing an appointment to adjust her immigration status which lead to the second charge.

Subhanah Wahhaj, Hujrah Wahhaj, and Lucas Morton were found guilty of kidnapping resulting in death. Morton, along with Sirah Wahhaj were convicted of providing material support to terrorists and conspiracy to kill officers. They're both facing life behind bars.

What’s happening around New Mexico October 20 – October 26

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:39:44 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Check out community events around New Mexico from October 20 – October 26.

Albuquerque

Oct. 20-26 – U-Pick Produce and Flowers – Big Jims Farms will allow attendees to pick local produce and flowers through October 2023. Individuals can attend the farm for free but will have to pay for items picked. There will also be farm tours, markets, farm animals, and more.

Oct. 21-26 – Bike Thru Burque Week – Join in on a weeklong celebration of bicycling through Albuquerque. Individuals can participate by biking anywhere around town. Those who participate could win prizes.

Oct. 21-22 – Maize Maze Fall Festival – Visit the Rio Grande Community Farm to enjoy a harvest celebration. Guests can enjoy live music, hayrides, llamas, a beer garden and more.

Oct. 20 –Science of Spirits – Enjoy an adult evening at Explora. Guests will get a chance to get local drinks, live music, food and more. There will be a variety of activities for guests. VIP and general admission tickets will be available.

Oct. 20 – Fright Night – Head to the National Hispanic Cultural Center. Guests can enjoy horror movies, local vendors, food and more. There will be many activities for all ages to enjoy.

Oct. 20 – Photography Night at the Museum – Visit the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History to get creative and enjoy some food trucks. Guests will also get a chance to hear lectures and even enter a photograph contest. Tickets are $15.

Oct. 20 – Food Truck Fridays – Every Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., food trucks will be set up along Civic Plaza. The event will include a variety of food trucks, live music, and a sitting area to dine.

Oct. 20 – La Familia Grower’s Market – Visit Dolores Huerta Gateway Park from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. for food trucks, produce, and live music. The event is free to attend.

Oct. 21 – UNM Lobo Football – The UNM Lobo football team will be taking on the Hawai'i team. Ticket prices vary.

Oct. 21 – Fiesta of Cultures – Head to the Coronado Historic Site to enjoy a family event. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Oct. 21 – Little Bear Natural Wine Fest 2023 – Celebrate natural wine with Little Bear Coffee and Wine Bar. Guests can sample over 50 natural wines and cheese. Attendees will also get a glass to take home. There is free and paid parking options. Guests must be 21 to attend.

Oct. 21 – Dogtobearfest – Visit Boxing Bear Brewing Co. to enjoy a pet adoption event, activities, photo booth and more. There will also be live music for guests to enjoy.

Oct. 21 – Downtown Grower’s Market – Albuquerque’s longest-running farmers market, in its 26th year, takes place each Saturday in Robinson Park starting at 8:00 a.m. Vendors bring fresh food, jewelry, crafts, and more to the event. This year’s grower’s market will run through Nov. 4.

Oct. 21, Oct. 25 – Read to the Dogs – Each Saturday and Wednesday from 1 to 2 p.m. attendees can learn how to read or advance their skills to therapy dogs. Children can pick any book they’d like and read along. The event is free to attend and occurs at the East Mountain Branch Library.

Oct. 22 – ABQ Fermentation and Fungi Fest – Enjoy checking out food producers, farmers, tastings and more. The event will start at 12 p.m.

Oct. 23 – Swing Dancing Class & Social Hour – Learn how to swing dance. Take a class, meet some new people and have some fun. Tickets are sold at the door and are $15.

New Mexico

Oct. 20-26 – Pottery Experiences (Hand Building or Wheel) – Join Paseo Pottery in Santa Fe, N.M. to learn how to make pottery. Each student will recycle their items and will get $15 off a piece from their gallery. The class is $125.

Oct. 21-22 – 20th Annual Jemez Mountain Trail Sale – Head to the Jemez Mountains to take part and find something new. Residents will be welcomed into the community to purchase a variety of items.

Oct. 21 – Historic Canyon Road Paint & Sculpt Out – Head to Santa Fe, NM to view sculptors, potters, painters and more. There will also be artists discussing techniques throughout the day and silent auctions will also take place. There will be over 100 artists at the event.

Oct. 21 – Walk & Talk Tours with Alpacas – Learn all about Alpacas in Clovis, NM. It will be a gentle walking tour as guests will get up close and personal with each of the alpacas that live on the farm. Tickers are $5 for adults, $3 for ages 2-13 and free for children under 2.

Oct. 21 – Las Cruces Air & Space Expo – Head to Las Cruces, NM to take part in an air show. There will be a variety of activities, shows and music events taking place. The event is free to attend.

Oct. 21 – Twilight Tours – Ramah, NM is a place where guests can learn about the rescues, tour and have a talk around the fire. Guests will also be able to view the wolves throughout the evening. Other activities are available for guests. The tour starts at 4:45 p.m.

Oct. 21 – Sierra County Farmers Market – Truth or Consequences, N.M. is home to this farmers market. The market runs each Saturday until October 2023. Individuals can enjoy the market for free from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. There will be produce, baked goods, live music, and more available for purchase.

Oct. 21 – Saturday Cooking Classes – Open Kitchen, LLC, will host cooking classes every Saturday. This weekend they will focus on preparing “cozy soups.” Classes are $115 plus tax. Classes take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oct. 21,24 – Santa Fe Farmers’ Market – Voted one of the “Top Ten Farmers’ Markets” by Sunset Magazine, the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market is one of the oldest, largest, and most successful growers’ markets in the country – serving more than 150 farmers and producers in Northern New Mexico. Open Saturdays and Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Oct. 26 – Downtown Maker’s Market – Farmington, N.M. kicks off the first day of its Downtown Maker’s Market. The market will be held every Thursday until October. The market will be downtown where a variety of vendors will be selling items like produce, food, decor, and more. The event runs from 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Albuquerque Notices

Game and Fish wardens search for elk poachers

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:39:36 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – State game and fish authorities are searching for a poacher who killed a bull elk. Hunter managers with the U.U. Bar Ranch near Angel Fire notified game wardens about the carcass left to waste on its property.

The elk had its head removed and was field-dressed. The ranch says all of its hunters and guides were accounted for, and none of them are responsible. If anyone has any information on this case, they are asked to contact the Game and Fish Department at 1-800-432-4263 or online.

Roswell announced as finalist for new National Championship Air Races location

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 12:39:34 +0000

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico could soon be home to another major aviation event. The National Championship Air Races in Reno is looking for a new home and Roswell is one of the six finalists.

"It's probably one of the most popular aviation attractions in the United States," said William Fitzpatrick, State Aviation Safety and Education Administrator for NMDOT.

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After six decades, the National Championship Air Races is leaving Reno, citing concerns about development near the airfield. When Mike Espiritu heard the news, he immediately gave organizers a call.

"I said well, Roswell's all in. We're ready. She goes, 'ok' and she goes, well, we'll get back to you," said Espiritu, CEO of the Roswell - Chaves County Economic Development Corporation. "And I realized I probably should tell our mayor, chairman of our board, what I just did...but when I shared that with them they were both pretty elated by it because they both understood what the would mean to Southeast New Mexico if not all of New Mexico."

On Thursday, Roswell was announced as one of the six finalists to be the new home for the national competition. Fitzpatrick said we've proven we can host big aviation events and this would take that reputation to new heights. "Being able to host races like this would bring a level of prestige to the state of New Mexico...and really showcase what we have to offer the aviation industry and those who are aviation enthusiasts across the United States and across the world really" said Fitzpatrick.

But can Roswell host an event of this scale? Espiritu said Roswell representatives held meetings and even went to the races in Reno to find out. "After looking at the numbers and analyzing the data like hotel rooms and RV parks, we believe we can," he said. "Our air center is about four times the one they're using right now."

If Roswell is selected, he said they would start pivoting to upgrade infrastructure to meet the needs of the event. According to the Reno Air Racing Association, the event brings in $100 million annually to the region it takes place in. Espiritu said that would help all of southeastern New Mexico take off. "That's better roads, that's better parks, better schools. It's going to be the tide that's going to lift all the boats not only in Roswell but in Artesia and Carlsbad and Ruidoso," he said.

Other finalists include Pueblo, Colorado, Casper, Wyoming, Thermal, California, Buckeye, Arizona, and Wendover, Utah. The Reno Air Racing Association is hosting an air show in Reno in 2024 with hopes to hold the entire competition in its new location in 2025.

Santa Fe leaders tour affordable housing for low-income residents

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:45:00 +0000

The tour, organized by groups that fund housing options for low-income residents and people experiencing homelessness, was created to foster an accurate dialogue about affordable housing, said Daniel Werwath, executive director of the New Mexico Inter-Faith Housing Development Corp.

Property taxes may increase on short-term rentals in Santa Fe city and county

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0000

“Property owners are not going to be happy,” Donna Reynolds, government affairs director for the Santa Fe Association of Realtors, said in an interview. “We’ve raised a lot of concerns.”

Murder trial begins for 84-year-old man accused of killing daughter's boyfriend

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:15:00 +0000

In opening statements, attorneys agree the evening of June 29, 2018, began peacefully at Ben Noverto Martinez's home outside Santa Fe.

Downwinders documentary premieres Friday

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

First We Bombed New Mexico begins a sold-out run at the Santa Fe International Film Festival.

State awards first round of grants under new rural health care fund

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:45:00 +0000

The initial $18 million of the $80 million fund is heading to 11 rural health care providers around New Mexico.

Las Vegas police chief placed on leave after domestic violence call

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:45:00 +0000

Antonio Salazar remains under investigation, but no criminal charges had been filed against him as of Thursday.

New Mexico rep. part of group aiming to lower cost of community college

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:34:25 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Lawmakers came together Thursday to introduce a bill to lower the cost of community college for students and used New Mexico as an example of how free college helps. United States Representative Teresa Leger Fernandez and other Senators introduced the "America's College Promise Act of 2023" in both the House and Senate which makes revisions to the "Higher Education Act of 1965."

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The bill is meant to make community colleges and two-year tribal universities more accessible by waiving tuition fees for students. Grants will be distributed to higher education institutions that serve minority students. Last year, New Mexico lawmakers passed the Opportunity Scholarship for higher education making two-year and four-year degrees free for residents.

Running for re-election, City Councilor indulges in abortion what-ifs

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:30:00 +0000

Jamie Cassutt has promised to preserve abortion rights, even though she and the city government are powerless to do so.

Campaign in support of 3% excise tax hosting series of events starting Friday

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000

The group said two-thirds of potential voters surveyed in a recent poll supported the measure.

New Mexico pulls plug on missing and murdered Indigenous people task force

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 03:30:00 +0000

“We were really making some great headway,” said Cheryl Yazzie, one of several task force members who believes the group’s work had just begun. “We just seem to have kind of stalled, ran out of gas.”

Fact Check: Stats on gun violence in New Mexico

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 23:08:11 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – With the governor's recent public health order on gun violence, New Mexico is at the center of a discussion over firearms deaths – and gun ownership rights. Now, in the New Mexico Supreme Court, the governor has filed a response to opponents, arguing that the numbers show gun violence is a public health issue. But what is she citing?

Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham and New Mexico Department of Health Secretary Patrick Allen submitted a document citing a range of studies and reports related to firearms and health. Overall, they're trying to make the case that data shows the state has a gun violence "epidemic." There is some data supporting that idea, but the data is far from perfect, and most of it is at least a few years out of date.

When it comes to gun violence, the governor points out that in 2021, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) counted 48,830 deaths from gun-related injuries across the U.S. What she doesn't clarify is that number includes suicides, as reported by the Pew Research Center. Gun-related murders, both Pew and the governor note, have increased in the U.S. But multiple times, the governor does not separate suicides from homicides and murders when discussing the statistics.

For non-suicides, the CDC counted 20,958 gun deaths from assault by firearm discharge (handguns, rifles, shotguns, and others) in the U.S. in 2021. They counted 233 gun assault deaths in New Mexico in 2021 – which represents 0.95% of all deaths that year in the state. (See notes at end of story for details.)

CDC data (as presented by the Pew Research Center) shows both gun-related suicides and murders have increased nationwide to 2021. In New Mexico, gun assault deaths made up about 0.95% of all deaths that year. Provisional data from 2022 shows a similar number.

Jagdish Khubchandani, a professor of public health at New Mexico State University says we can expect around 45,000 gun-related deaths in the U.S. this year, but again more than half of that number is represented by suicide. "In many cases, it's a preventable cause of death," Khubchandani says. "Why are people living in so much distress that they have to kill themselves to the extent that we now rank the highest in the industrialized nations for gun suicide, gun homicide, child gun deaths?" Khubchandani says now is the time to be talking about guns from a public health perspective, something the governor is doing with her latest filing.

In her court filing, the governor notes that gun violence has not only been increasing but has been hitting New Mexico's youth particularly hard. "Gun violence was the leading cause of death among children and teens ages 1-19 years from 2016 to 2022," her filing in court says. She's citing a presentation to lawmakers by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. That report says the state's gun death rate is "partly due to the state’s limited gun violence prevention laws." KRQE News 13 reported on the more than 100 gun control bills the state's politicians have considered in the last 14 years – as of our 2021 report, only 11 of those bills had been turned into laws, and some of the laws haven't always been fully enforced.

"The challenge is that states do not want to implement those policies," Khubchandani says. He points to the recent challenges in getting the Bennie's Bill passed in the legislature. That bill aimed to criminalize adults who negligently allow firearms to fall into the hands of a child who misuses the weapon. It passed into law, but not before significant pushback from some lawmakers.

The Johns Hopkins report cited by the governor in her latest court filing also notes that "while narratives around gun violence often focus on cities, both rural and urban communities in New Mexico are impacted by gun violence." Indeed, the governor's initial public health order on addressing gun violence focused more critically on the Albuquerque metro than many rural portions of the state.

CDC data from 2021 shows that the per-population gun-related assault deaths were highest in Rio Arriba County, Sierra County, and Socorro County.

CDC and Census data suggests gun violence may be a larger problem – per capita – in rural communities.

Khubchandani says his research shows that rural areas are often underlooked. "Albuquerque is a bigger town, bigger city, there's a lot of local media channels [there]," Khubchandani says. "But in my last few studies, we have found that gun-related suicides are the biggest problem in rural America. There's no mental health care there. There's easy access to guns. There's little social support."

Gun violence is a complex issue, and Khubchandani says that no matter what policies are put in place via a public health order from the governor, solving the issue of gun violence isn't going to be easy.

"I think it takes decades," Khubchandani says. He says the political debates surrounding guns and the sheer number of guns in the community mean that it will likely take time for policies to have an impact. On top of that, underlying issues like poverty and limited mental health care in New Mexico, which he says contribute to gun violence, may take years to improve. But, the good news, he says, is that people are now talking about guns and thinking about the role they play in public health.

"I think what the governor did has both good and bad sides. The good side that I'm happy about is that there's now a conversation on this topic," Khubchandani says. In his view the bad side is that with all the political pushback, the order isn't the end-all-be-all for gun violence, he says. "We have to now go back to people, have a discussion with them, and ask them what they would prefer to be able to continue to reduce the gun deaths in New Mexico."

*Data Notes: CDC death statistics reported are for single cause-of-death instances. Death certificates that include multiple causes of death may not be included.

Carlsbad installing baby box at fire department

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:40:59 +0000

CARLSBAD, N.M. (KRQE) – The city of Carlsbad said they will have a Safe Haven baby box up this weekend. The box is being installed at the Carlsbad Fire Department. The Safe Haven baby box is meant for people with newborn children and those up to 90 days old to surrender them without repercussions. It controls the temperature and gives sufficient oxygen until alerting authorities that a baby has been dropped off.

This will be the second baby box in southeastern New Mexico and third in the state. The Safe Haven box in Hobbs recently saw its first successful drop-off in September. The Carlsbad box will be operational starting Saturday with a short ceremony beforehand.

Portales hoping to change water restrictions after evaluation

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:40:02 +0000

PORTALES, N.M. (KRQE) – The city of Portales is hoping to upgrade its water restriction status after an evaluation. The city's water department will be starting a scheduled cleaning and evaluation on the well field this week. Once that service is done, the water department will evaluate the reports.

If the reports show an additional 500 gallons per minute of production, the city will go to a limited stage three restriction by December 1. If the tests go well, they hope to move the restrictions to stage two.

Roswell Police arrest Walmart shooting victim's girlfriend

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:38:57 +0000

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) – The Roswell Police Department said they have arrested a second person related to a deadly shooting at a Walmart. Police arrested 22-year-old Zayleen Thyberg who was the girlfriend of the victim in last weekend's shooting. They said that after Steve Soltero was shot by a Walmart employee, Thyberg removed a gun from Soltero's hand and hid the weapon with some nearby merchandise.

Police also said Thyberg had tried to punch the shooter minutes before the shooting while he was suspected of following the couple. Thyberg is facing a tampering with evidence charge.

The suspected shooter, Joshua Martinez, was arrested on Monday. His next court appearance is scheduled for next week.

NMDOT pays hundreds of thousands in settlement after deadly crash

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 22:30:18 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) –A New Mexico family is getting hundreds of thousands of dollars after suing the state over icy roads that played a part in a deadly crash. The state is settling that lawsuit, after facing claims that NMDOT was negligent by not maintaining the freeway. "They realize they can't bring their loved one back...She's come a long way, but she still struggles," says Keith Franchini, attorney for the Law Office of Keith Franchini.

Brent James Horner's family is still dealing with the loss of their grandson. Four years ago, the 22-year-old was driving to his house in Raton after leaving work in Las Vegas. Around eight on a Tuesday night, Horner lost control of his SUV along an icy stretch of I-25, roughly 30 miles north of Las Vegas.

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Court documents say Horner died after crashing into a guard rail and rolling down a 30-foot embankment. Horner's family filed a lawsuit in 2021, claiming the freeway had not been cleared, deiced, or salted saying that's the responsibility of NMDOT to maintain safe roads. "And in this particular case, it was pretty clear to us that this could've easily have been avoided has they just followed their own policies and procedures and been there in advance of the storm that was impeding," said David Houliston, attorney for Law Offices of David M. Houliston.

Nearly four years after the crash, the state has settled the case agreeing to pay $250,000 to Horner's family. They hope the lawsuit, in part, will motivate DOT to take preventative action in the future. "This is a small piece of making people or encouraging people to do their job better and make the roads more safe for all of the drivers of New Mexico," Franchini said.

While NMDOT settled, the agency is not admitting any fault in the crash. The department told KRQE, it doesn't comment on litigation but is "committed" to roadway safety.

Why is it taking so long to get broadband across New Mexico?

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:15:24 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – The state has seen announcement after announcement of millions of dollars being put towards broadband expansion. But money only goes so far. Now, a federal report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO) is shedding light on why progress on broadband expansion takes so long despite funding.

More than $1 billion in federal funding has been authorized for middle-mile infrastructure across the U.S., according to the GAO. That "middle mile" is the gap between global internet providers and local users. And it's particularly challenging to cover that gap in parts of New Mexico.

Some of the challenges are physical. For example, near El Malpais National Monument west of Albuquerque, the rocky volcanic landscape makes installing infrastructure tough. "We heard from providers that areas around El Malpais National Monument with old lava flows experience challenges using both fixed wireless (because of interference caused by the lava rocks) and buried fiber (because of the rocky terrain). Thus, they rely on placing fiber on utility poles," the GAO report notes.

Some of the challenges are bureaucratic. "One [Internet] provider in New Mexico stated that permitting approval could take 2 to 3 years," the report says. "In New Mexico, providers must work with local, state, tribal, federal, and private landowners. Some stakeholders told us that each of these jurisdictions has separate permitting requirements that can create challenges to middle-mile deployment."

New Mexico isn't alone in facing challenges, the report notes. But with a wide range of geographic diversity and intertwining federal, local, and tribal jurisdictions, New Mexico faces unique challenges that some other states don't. Still, the state moves forward with a range of programs aimed at overcoming those challenges.

New Mexico lawmaker worried about the future of journalism

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 21:05:13 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) — If you read the news at KRQE.com, there's a good chance you've also seen our TV coverage. KRQE News 13 has been one of the hundreds of local news stations broadcasting news for years. But now, some lawmakers are worried that online streaming could limit access to local TV news.

The TV industry has changed dramatically in the last few decades. The digital economy now accounts for billions of dollars in gross output, and video is following that trend. But the new era is raising questions about access to content, and lawmakers in Congress are asking the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to consider — and perhaps regulate — existing broadcasting rules to ensure the future of local news.

With the rise of multi-channel cable TV in the 80s, it became easier than ever to get news and shows from around the world delivered to local communities. Although that presented obvious benefits to viewers, it came at the risk of national-level content crowding out local content, such as news focused on a specific community. Regulators required cable companies to get permission from local broadcasters in order to re-transmit their signals, which became a way for local stations to collect money and remain economically viable, according to the National Association of Broadcasters.

But streaming services present a whole new frontier for how local content might be re-distributed. Starting in 2014, the FCC began looking into modernizing regulation to include digital distributors, but even that was before streaming really took the world by storm.

"The [Federal Commission Commission] should be developing a record and recommendations to ensure that our regulatory system – which has enabled a thriving locally-focused broadcast system that is the envy of the world – is not undermined by the explosion of new technologies that were not foreseen even a mere decade ago," U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and other congressional representatives wrote in a letter to the FCC.

Luján's office claims that in 2014, the majority of households had cable or satellite TV. But now, fewer than half of families have subscriptions to those, Luján's office says.

New Mexico is poised to become the next global tech hub

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 18:19:43 +0000

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico could become the next global tech hub. At least, that's the opinion of CerraCap Ventures partner Ritesh Agarwal. The California-based company has steadily been growing its presence in New Mexico over the years, citing the technological infrastructure that already exists, thanks to entities like Sandia and Los Alamos National Labs.

According to New Mexico Inno, the company recently secured a multi-million dollar office space in the state, which will help to develop greater relationships with start-ups in technology, planet health, and commerce.

Agarwal says a major challenge the state faces is that entrepreneurs actually aren't thinking big enough. He says many companies are thinking too small, with a myopic scope of where they see their company growing. Instead of securing funding in the hundreds of thousands, Agarwal says they need to ask in the millions -the idea being that the start-up capital needs to realistically support the timeline most new companies need to establish roots and grow.

Their carefully curated portfolio has companies around the world, and Agarwal says they hope to expand on the technology and innovation landscape New Mexico has been growing since the 1940s.

New Mexico Frontiers Digital Show is KRQE New 13's online exclusive web series, giving viewers a more detailed look into how the state is making waves in the Aerospace, Bio-science, Renewable Energy, Digital Media and Film, and Advanced Manufacturing communities. For more segments on prior stories, visit the New Mexico Frontiers page by clicking this link.

Voter turnout slow in Albuquerque, while Santa Fe sees record-breaking numbers so far

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 17:29:42 +0000

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – We're weeks away from election day, and early voters and the requests for mail-in ballots are already rolling. News 13 spoke with county clerks in Albuquerque and Santa Fe to find out more about how this election cycle is shaping up.

"All local elections are always a disappointment to me because there's not a big turnout, and I get so anxious over that because, to me, this is the most important election we have," stated Bernalillo County Clerk Linda Stover.

Come November 7, eligible voters across the state will have the opportunity to make their voices heard through voting, but Stover said of the 430,000 eligible voters in Bernalillo County, only about a quarter will vote. So far this year, Stover said voter turnout has been slow.

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"As of last night, we've had 279 early voters. This Saturday, we open up for early voting, and we'll have 20 locations all over Bernalillo County; and hopefully, it'll pick up then," Stover stated. Bernalillo County has also had nearly 14,000 absentee ballots requested.

For more information about voting in Bernalillo County, visit their site here.

The numbers are looking up in Santa Fe County. Santa Fe County Clerk Katharine Clark claimed they've already had nearly 5,000 absentee ballots requested and around 400 people have already voted.

"All 109,000-ish voters got a notice of election, so a lot of them have decided to apply for absentee ballots, so we do have record-breaking numbers for a regular local election," Clark stated.

Clerks from both counties stress the importance of voting in this local election:

"The people we elect in the local elections are the people that serve you every day in your government. They're the ones making laws that affect you immediately; they're the ones that decide your taxes go up and down locally. You need to know who these people are. How often do you call the president and say, 'Hey, Mr. President. I got a problem at my park'? Local elections is where you need to be," Stover commented.

For more information about voting in Santa Fe County, visit their site here.

The last day to request an absentee ballot is October 24.

Salvadoran-Mexican restaurant plans new operation in vacant Raaga-Go space

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 16:38:00 +0000

Owners Nain and Johanna Ramirez operate La Esperanza Kitchen on Cerrillos Road and plan similar menus at both locations.

KRQE Newsfeed: Racing crackdown, FEMA lawsuit, Mild temperatures, APS superintendent, Fighting disease

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:37:50 +0000

Thursday's Top Stories

Thursday's Five Facts

[1] Efforts made to crackdown on street racing in Albuquerque - APD are hoping to crack down on street racing. APD's swing shift motors unit started two years ago, with officers patrolling the streets Wednesday through Saturday from 4 p.m. - 2 a.m. Now, the unit is hoping to expand with a second shift that would cover the remainder of the week. They are also looking to bring in other units for a major street racing operation in the future. So far this year, APD has issued more than 1,000 citations through its street racing tact plan.

[2] Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon victims sue FEMA over compensation - New Mexicans who are still recovering from the Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon Fire are taking FEMA to court. Congress and the President approved nearly $4 billion for compensation to people impacted by the fire, which started as two federal prescribed burns. Victims are taking FEMA to court in a federal lawsuit, saying FEMA only offered compensation for structural damage, not for non-economic damage, like emotional toll victims experienced. The suit claims New Mexico law says victims should be compensated for non-economic damages.

[3] More near-record heat through the weekend - It will be another warm afternoon, with high temperatures climbing into the 70s and 80s across the state. Near-record and record warm temperatures are expected through the weekend. Skies will stay sunny and dry, aside from cloudier skies on Saturday across the south and east. Winds will stay light through the weekend as well.

[4] Albuquerque Public Schools begins search for next superintendent - The nationwide search for a new Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent has begun. APS is hiring a search firm to lead the process to replace Scott Elder, who is set to retire. The firm says APS is aiming to narrow its candidates to five or six top choices by the end of January. The school board says they hope to have a new superintendent by spring, so the new hire can begin July 1, 2024.

[5] NMSU receives funding to research common disease found in crops like chile - Fungal pathologists from New Mexico State University are looking to stop a common disease threatening the state's most iconic crops. NMSU Professor Soum Sanogo is leading the work behind a new $6 million federal grant researching a pathogen that thrives in moisture. The fungus causes chile plants to wilt, rot and eventually die. In some cases it can force farmers to abandon their fields. The four-year project aims to find resistance to the pathogen and create ways to detect the fungus in soil and water.

Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon victims sue FEMA over compensation

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 13:12:21 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Many New Mexicans are still trying to rebuild after the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon Fire, which was the largest wildfire in the state's history. But some say the federal government, which is responsible for the fire, needs to do more to help victims recover. Now, they're taking the feds to court.

In September 2022, Congress and the president approved $3.95 billion for compensation to people impacted by the fire, which started as two federally prescribed burns. In a video FEMA sent KRQE, they shared victims' stories while touting their compensation package. Victims also give testimonials on how the aid is helping them rebuild.

"Now they can start replacing the fencing. They can start addressing the erosion that's causing these ponds to silt in. They get cows back out here. That's what they do for a living," said FEMA Claims' Office Associate Advocate John Cyle Sharp in FEMA's video.

However, some victims said that is not enough. Now, they are taking FEMA to court in a federal lawsuit.

"The people who have been injured by the negligence of the federal government deserve full compensation," said Brian Colón, who is representing some of the plaintiffs.

In the lawsuit, they claimed FEMA is only offering compensation for property and structural damage and not for noneconomic damage like the emotional toll victims experienced. The lawsuit particularly cites damages like "interference with personal comfort, annoyance, and inconvenience."

"At this point, we're saying, 'Enough's enough.' They have not distributed the funds to the people who've been damaged, and they're not recognizing the full damages of those folks," said Colón. "Under the law that was passed by Congress, they said they were supposed to compensate victims under New Mexico law. New Mexico law provides for those folks to be compensated for their inconvenience and for what they've been through, for the trauma they've suffered, as a result of the federal government's negligence."

He said he's confident a federal judge will agree. "New Mexico law is clear. These victims of the Hermits Peak-Calf Canyon fire deserve to be compensated fully. We're going to work every day until that happens," said Colón.

There is no timeline for when the case could go in front of a federal judge. In an emailed statement, FEMA said it does not comment on pending litigation, but it did send over claimant testimonial videos.

To date, FEMA has distributed $95 million of the $3.95 billion funds. It is also hiring more staff for the claimant office.

Roswell man charged with murder following his father's death

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 11:25:33 +0000

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) – Ivan Gonzalez, 19, has been charged following the death of his father on August 27. According to police, Gonzalez and his father, Mario Gonzalez, 44, got into an argument while they were drinking in a truck outside of a home. They said Gonzalez began punching his father, who got out of the truck and started walking toward the home.

Gonzalez is accused of following, then choking, punching, and kicking his father. Mario Gonzalez was taken to the hospital and was transferred to another hospital, where he later died.

Police said they waited to charge Gonzalez until the results of the autopsy were released. The report said that he had multiple internal injuries and died from blunt force trauma. It also listed existing medical conditions as contributing to his death.

Ivan Gonzalez has been charged with second-degree murder. Police are currently searching for him. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Roswell Police Department at 575-624-6770.

3% tax supporters, opponents, trade claims of misinformation

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:45:00 +0000

"If this tax passes, it will be challenged and tied up in court for years," a mailer reads. "They're the reason it's tied up in court," said state Rep. Andrea Romero.

Plan recommends higher fees, fewer visitors at long-shuttered Tent Rocks

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0000

A BLM spokeswoman said Wednesday the agency hasn't set a reopening date for the site, which has been closed since 2020.

Petition seeks recall of Rio Arriba County Commission Chairman Alex Naranjo

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:15:00 +0000

Backers would have to gather just over 1,200 signatures to force a recall vote in a special election.

St. John's College students learn financial literacy

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Students who pass an exam at the end of the financial literacy program will receive $500 to fund a 529 plan.

Data shows varied voting records for local election candidates

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:30:00 +0000

When she’s out on the campaign trail, Santa Fe City Council candidate Pilar Faulkner tells residents every single vote in the southernmost District 3 matters.

Trinity Site hosting open house for visitors soon

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:28:27 +0000

SOCORRO COUNTY, N.M. (KRQE) – An open house will be held at the famous Trinity Site. That's the location where the atomic bomb was tested on July 16, 1945.

After the recent film Oppenheimer came to theaters, the Trinity Site has been at the forefront of New Mexico visitors' minds.

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The open house will take place on October 21, and it is free with no reservations. The event starts at 8 a.m. and goes until 2 p.m., and there may be a wait.

The next time the open house will take place is April 6.

Native education advocates ask lawmakers for more investments

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 04:00:00 +0000

Sen. Bill Soules, D-Las Cruces, said it remains unclear if any agency or advocacy group is tracking education data to determine whether the state is making progress, and it's unclear what goal the state aims to reach.

New Mexico set record tourism revenue of $8 billion in 2022

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 03:45:00 +0000

The state Tourism Department noted the 2022 figure smashes the previous record set in 2019 before the pandemic.

New Mexico United hitting the postseason on fire

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 03:38:10 +0000

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – New Mexico United will head into their USL quarterfinal matchup against Sacramento Republic FC with a full head of steam. United ended the regular season on a three-game winning streak to get into the playoffs.

In two regular season matchups against Sacramento this season, United won at home 3-0. The two teams played to a scoreless tie in Sacramento. Sacramento will host Saturday's USL quarterfinal game.

"For us, it's another one we go in with a positive mentality," said NM United forward Greg Hurst. "And, you know, just piggybacking off the last three weeks, the form that we're in, we got to keep pushing that. You have to believe that you are going to go in there and win, especially in the playoffs."

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It was the hardcore belief in one another, along with key losses by other teams that helped United make the playoffs. They know they are the hot team at the moment and perhaps an underdog. It's all okay for United.

"That underdog mentality, you know. The A team. I love that," said NM United goalkeeper Andrew Thomas. "Let's go to their house, end their season. I could promise you there are teams they would rather be playing, other than us."

New Mexico United and Sacramento Republic FC will meet at 8 p.m. MT Saturday night.

Santa Fe city attorney reminds councilors against workplace bullying

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 03:15:00 +0000

“I wanted to highlight a few of the procedural rules and one of our ethics rules just for folks to keep those fresh in their minds," City Attorney Erin McSherry said at last week's council meeting.

Pasa Plus: Local events for Oct. 20-22

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 02:45:00 +0000

The Santa Fe International Film Festival highlights local weekend events.

Richards Avenue near Santa Fe Community College set to reopen Friday

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 00:12:00 +0000

Richards Avenue, partly closed for the construction of a roundabout north of Santa Fe Community College, will reopen earlier than expected.

Planned burn near Santa Fe watershed canceled for the fall

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 00:10:00 +0000

The Forest Service said the North Aztec Springs prescribed fire was canceled after evaluations of weather patterns and fuel moisture.

NMSU receives funding to research common disease found in crops like chile

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 23:47:27 +0000

NEW MEXICO (KRQE) – Whether it’s a labor shortage, drought, or flooding, New Mexico's chile growers are always facing a challenge. Even disease can be added to that list.

A new effort from one university is aiming to make a type of plant disease a thing of the past.

New Mexico State University’s next chapter now looks to save the state's famous crop, the chile, from a common disease.

“It does destroy a lot of crops if it's not controlled,” said fungal plant pathologist at NMSU Professor Soum Sanogo.

Sanogo is leading the work behind a new $6 million federal grant that aims to research a destructive plant fungus. It's a pathogen called Phytophthora Blight which thrives in moisture and can cause farmers to abandon their fields.

“Some cases where you have hundreds of acres of chile, and you get a huge monsoon season, it's very difficult to drain those fields before that disease sets in. Being able to catch it before it sets in the fields is really huge for us,” said Executive Director of the New Mexico Chile Association, Travis Day.

The fungus causes chile plants to wilt, rot, and eventually die. It even affects other crops like melons, cucumbers, and pumpkins.

“This fungus has found a way to evolve like COVID. It gets variants, and it is able to survive every year,” said Sanogo.

While Sanogo mentioned New Mexico didn't see much of it this year, the difficult disease is one they're still hoping to eradicate under their new research. The four-year project aims to find resistance to the pathogen and create ways to detect the fungus in soil and water.

Researchers also want to create a drought-tolerant chile that will withhold water from the plant while only hurting the pathogen.

While NMSU is leading the research, they're also collaborating with universities in Arizona, Texas, Florida, and other states to study the disease. Students will be working on the project in campus fields and at other local farms.

Asia habitat opens at ABQ BioPark

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:56:08 +0000

ABQ BioPark Zoo opens new exhibit giving visitors a whole new wild experience.

Roswell man goes to trial for girlfriend's murder, child abuse

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:46:00 +0000

ROSWELL, N.M. (KRQE) – The trial began for a man accused of murdering his girlfriend and fleeing the country into Mexico, taking their three-year-old son with him.

In 2020, police claimed Jorge Rico-Ruvira strangled Isela Mauricio-Sanchez in her home. He was on the run until October of 2021 when he was tracked down in Mexico and turned over to Roswell police.

The boy was returned to family members in the U.S.

The jury was selected Monday for Rico-Ruvira's trial. He is charged with first-degree murder and child abuse. The trial is expected to last three weeks.

'Galactic 05' spaceflight set to be the sixth in six months

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 22:36:22 +0000

TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, N.M. (KRQE) – Virgin Galactic has announced its plans for "Galactic 05," which will be the company's sixth spaceflight in six months and its tenth flight to date. "Galactic 05" has a planned flight window of November 2, and Virgin Galactic says, "Insights from this flight will be used to enhance and refine the research capabilities of our future Delta fleet."

The mission will include three "dynamic crew" members:

Astronaut 020 - Dr. Alan Stern, U.S. Planetary Scientist and Associate Vice President in Southwest Research Institute’s (SwRI) Space Sector
Astronaut 021 - Kellie Gerardi, U.S. Payload Specialist and Bioastronautics Researcher for the International Institute for Astronautical Sciences (IIAS)
Astronaut 022 - Private Astronaut – Franco-Italian nationality

Virgin Galactic says Dr. Stern is a former NASA Associate Administrator and will be training during the flight for future spaceflights. Sponsored by the Southwest Research Institute, Dr. Stern will "collect physiological data related to human spaceflight and conduct practice activities for an astronomical experiment" while on the flight.

Gerardi will be examining how "confined fluid" behaves as part of her research regarding healthcare technologies in "microgravity conditions." Virgin Galactic says, "Her research has been developed through extensive reduced gravity flight campaigns with the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) and would now be advanced through a suborbital flight."

The Virgin Galactic crew includes the following:

VSS Unity Commander Mike Masucci
Pilot Kelly Latimer
VMS Eve Commander Jameel Janjua
Pilot Andy Edgell
Astronaut Instructor Colin Bennett

“After years of sending machines to conduct research on my behalf, I'm thrilled to be making this maiden spaceflight. What sets this flight apart from others, and which likely represents a new kind of space activity, is that more than anything else, I will be training – in space – for future space experiments I will be performing with NASA funding. Virgin’s suborbital costs are low enough to open up space training actually in space as a viable opportunity, and that is a game changer."
Dr. Alan Stern, on behalf of SwRI

“This mission represents the beginning of a new era of access to space for the research community, and the culmination of a personal lifelong dream. I’m grateful for the support and confidence that IIAS continues to place in me, and I’m looking forward to paving the way for our many talented researchers who will follow, using space as a laboratory to benefit humanity,”

Kellie Gerardi, on behalf of IIAS.

Prosecutors will present evidence against Alec Baldwin to grand jury

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:45:00 +0000

Special prosecutors intend to present the case to a grand jury within the next two months, a statement said.

State: Stepped-up welfare checks found three-fold spike in neglect, abuse in disability program

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:30:00 +0000

In fiscal year 2023, the state recorded 777 substantiated incidents of abuse, neglect or exploitation among 547 of the 8,000 people enrolled in the program.

District 2 race heats up with negative campaign video

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 05:15:00 +0000

Lucero calls out Garcia for abstaining from votes; Garcia says the video shows a misunderstanding of the policymaking process.

Fitch gives Santa Fe AA+ bond rating amid audit troubles

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 04:45:00 +0000

The city has received A++ ratings going back to at least 2016.