Teenager Arrested for Allegedly Killing Family Members in New Mexico
A 16-year-old boy in New Mexico has been arrested in connection with the deaths of four family members in what authorities are calling a quadruple homicide.
The Valencia County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call early Saturday morning from the teenager, who confessed to killing his family. According to a statement from the New Mexico State Police, deputies arrived at the residence in Belen, where the teenager emerged from the house with his hands in the air, appearing extremely intoxicated.
Inside the home, deputies discovered the bodies of Leonardo Leyva, 42, Adriana Bencomo, 35, Adrian Leyva, 16, and Alexander Leyva, 14, all of whom had suffered fatal gunshot wounds. A handgun was found on the kitchen table, authorities reported.
The suspect was taken into custody without incident. Authorities have not disclosed a motive for the killings, and the investigation is ongoing.
“This is a tragic and shocking incident for our community,” the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement, assuring the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted.
The small city of Belen, located south of Albuquerque, has been left in shock by the tragic event, with community members expressing grief and disbelief. Support services have been made available for those affected by the tragedy.
The suspect remains in custody, and further details about the case are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.
