Juanito Baca, 36 and a resident of Serafina, New Mexico, was shot and killed near Las Vegas, New Mexico, on June 20, 2023. Authorities say he and a cousin had spent the evening drinking together before an altercation ended in a fatal shooting.

Law enforcement identified 53-year-old Melecio Baca of Las Vegas as the suspect. Melecio was charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence and reportedly fled the scene in a red 2005 GMC truck; a warrant was issued for his arrest. Motive is unclear beyond the report that the situation escalated during their time together that night.

This loss has left family and the local community grieving. If anyone knew Juanito, Melecio, or has information about that night or the red 2005 GMC truck, please come forward.