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Teenage Boy Accused of Killing Four Family Members in New Mexico Home

In a tragic and chilling incident, a 16-year-old boy from New Mexico has been accused of fatally shooting four members of his family. The alleged crime has sent shockwaves through the city of Belén, located in Valencia County, and raised numerous questions about the events leading to such a horrifying act.

Early Morning 911 Call Leads to Grim Discovery

Authorities were alerted to the tragedy in the early hours of Saturday morning when Diego Leyva, the teenage suspect, reportedly made a 911 call confessing to the killings. According to the New Mexico State Police, Leyva stated that he had killed his family, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement officers.

Upon arriving at the residence, deputies found Leyva outside, where he surrendered without resistance. He reportedly walked out with his hands in the air, visibly intoxicated. Officers immediately took him into custody and transported him for medical evaluation before booking him into a juvenile detention center in Albuquerque.

The Victims

Inside the home, investigators discovered the lifeless bodies of four individuals, all of whom were members of Leyva’s immediate family. The victims have been identified as:

Leonardo Leyva, an adult male

Adriana Bencomo, an adult female

Adrian Leyva, a 16-year-old male

Alexander Leyva, a 14-year-old male

Preliminary reports indicate that all four victims died from gunshot wounds. A handgun was found on the kitchen table, which investigators believe was used in the crime. The motive for the killings remains unclear, and authorities are working to piece together the circumstances that led to this devastating act.

Investigation Underway

The New Mexico State Police, along with a specialized crime scene team, are meticulously processing the scene and conducting interviews to gather evidence and establish a timeline of events. According to officials, the investigation is in its early stages, and once completed, the findings will be handed over to the district attorney’s office for prosecution.

“This is a tragedy that no community should have to endure,” said a spokesperson for the state police. “Our investigators are working diligently to uncover the facts and provide answers to the family and the community.”

The Suspect’s Condition

Law enforcement officials have noted that Leyva was “extremely intoxicated” at the time of his arrest. It is unclear whether substance abuse played a role in the incident, but it will likely be a focal point of the investigation. Toxicology reports and psychological evaluations are expected to provide further insights into Leyva’s state of mind at the time of the killings.

Community Reactions and Impact

The close-knit community of Belén has been left reeling from the tragedy. Neighbors and friends of the family have expressed their shock and sorrow, describing the Leyvas as a seemingly normal family with no outward signs of trouble.

“This is something you never think could happen here,” said a neighbor who wished to remain anonymous. “They were quiet, kept to themselves, and seemed happy. It’s just heartbreaking.”

One of the victims, Adriana Bencomo, was a dedicated volunteer firefighter, known for her years of service to the community. The Valencia County Fire Department released a statement mourning her loss and offering condolences to the family. “Adriana’s selflessness and commitment to helping others will never be forgotten,” the statement read. “Our hearts are heavy, and our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy.”

Legal Proceedings

Diego Leyva faces four counts of first-degree murder. Given the severity of the charges, legal experts anticipate that prosecutors may seek to have him tried as an adult. However, this decision will depend on several factors, including his age, mental state, and the circumstances surrounding the case.

If tried as an adult and convicted, Leyva could face life in prison. If the case remains in juvenile court, sentencing options would be more limited, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

Gun Violence in Focus

This incident has reignited discussions about gun violence and mental health in the United States, particularly among young people. Advocates for stricter gun control measures have pointed to this tragedy as yet another example of the devastating consequences of easy access to firearms.

“We need to address the root causes of these incidents,” said a representative from a local advocacy group. “That means better mental health resources, stricter gun laws, and more community engagement to identify and intervene in situations before they escalate to violence.”

Moving Forward

As the community grapples with this heartbreaking loss, efforts are being made to support those affected. Local organizations and counseling services are offering assistance to friends, neighbors, and first responders who may be struggling to process the tragedy.

“It’s going to take time for our community to heal,” said a local pastor. “But we will come together, support one another, and honor the memories of those we’ve lost.”

Conclusion

The deaths of Leonardo Leyva, Adriana Bencomo, Adrian Leyva, and Alexander Leyva have left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the community of Belén. As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on seeking justice for the victims and understanding how such a tragedy could occur. This heartbreaking case serves as a somber reminder of the need for vigilance, compassion, and proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

source by CNN

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