Joel Valdez was 39 and worked as a tattoo artist and a father when he was killed in Southwest Albuquerque on July 4, 2023. The death followed a violent, day-long series of confrontations tied to months of marital conflict between Joel and his wife, Erica Valdez, during which both accused each other of infidelity.

The dispute escalated when Joel confronted Erica and her boyfriend, James Sena, at a motel where Sena worked as a security guard; reports say Sena and Erica both brandished handguns and Joel left. Later that evening, Erica arrived at the couple’s home on Andrews Avenue and pointed a handgun at Joel’s chest; a 911 call from the house captured a woman screaming threats. After Erica left, surveillance captured a burst of automatic gunfire nearby and family members say Erica later called and said she had sprayed the house. About two hours later Erica returned, allegedly with Sena, and another volley of automatic gunfire occurred. Joel’s body was found on 98th Street near his car; responders determined he died of a gunshot wound.

Police say two different firearms were used. Erica Valdez was arrested and charged with murder, shooting at a dwelling, and aggravated assault; James Sena was arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit a first-degree felony. Does anyone have information about Joel, his movements that night, or witnesses to the motel or Andrews Avenue confrontations?