A birthday party in rural San Miguel County, New Mexico, ended in tragedy when an 18-year-old allegedly shot and killed a man following a heated argument.
Police say Jeremiah J. Salazar fatally shot 23-year-old Gabriel Eric Rivera during a gathering of about 20 people, the Las Vegas Optic reported. A woman was also injured, sustaining a gunshot wound to her wrist.
Witnesses reported that Salazar and Rivera began arguing before the dispute escalated into a physical altercation. Salazar was heard calling Rivera a derogatory name, at which point multiple gunshots were fired. One of those shots hit Rivera in the chest, leaving him bleeding on the floor.
Salazar fled the scene but was apprehended about a mile away, still carrying a pistol. He declined to speak with authorities without an attorney.
A 17-year-old witness told investigators that he and others had driven to Albuquerque earlier in the day to pick up Salazar, who he knew as "J-Money," and noted seeing him with a black pistol before the party.
Salazar, who turned 18 three months ago, faces charges including second-degree murder, aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, and unlawful carrying of a handgun by a minor.
A hearing to determine whether Salazar will remain in custody until trial is scheduled for Tuesday. Prosecutors intend to seek pretrial detention, citing the severity of the charges.
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