Las Cruces shooting case tops a busy week in southern New Mexico
Good morning, and thanks for being here. This week brought a steady mix of public safety updates, policy decisions and community coverage across southern New Mexico.
Here’s a quick look at what we’ve been tracking — and why it matters.
A Las Cruces teen is facing serious charges after police say an attempted robbery outside an apartment complex ended in a shooting that left an 18-year-old injured.
The case quickly drew widespread attention, becoming the most-read story of the week as readers followed updates, including new information from Las Cruces police clarifying the victim’s age after our initial report.
Damien Willis
Here’s what you need to know today
- The New Mexico Supreme Court ruled that El Paso Electric cannot recover past financial losses from customers through future rate increases, rejecting a form of retroactive ratemaking in a decision with statewide implications for utility bills.
- During an Albuquerque Journal town hall, former Las Cruces mayor Ken Miyagishima, an independent candidate for governor, said he plans to draw from “policies from all parties” as he makes his case to voters in the 2026 race.
- Doña Ana County animal control officers rescued 15 dogs from a Chaparral property, where investigators say the animals were living in severe neglect.
- A Las Cruces middle school teacher and coach is facing charges after being accused of sexual contact with a student, according to court records.
Worth knowing
New Mexicans have begun receiving $100,000 payments under the expanded Radiation Exposure Compensation Act, with nearly 9,100 downwinder claims filed and almost 1,200 approved so far.
The online claims portal is now open, and advocates say residents do not have to pay outside companies to apply. Free help is available for those navigating the process.
Elva Österreich, writing for the Southern New Mexico Journalism Collaborative, explains how it works and who qualifies.
From the newsroom
It’s been another busy week across southern New Mexico, with a wide range of stories shaping the conversation.
We’ll keep doing the work — and we’re grateful to everyone who helps make it possible.
Stay connected
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