On December 10, 2022, Rio Rancho officers found 49-year-old Michael Skinner dead in a bathtub at a home on North Pole Loop. The initial call came from his 19-year-old son, Zayn Skinner. Investigators say Zayn admitted he shot his father twice with a handgun and then stabbed him multiple times after waking him and asking whether he abused animals.

Neighbors reported hearing a loud bang the night of the killing and saw the garage door opening and closing repeatedly. Prosecutors were preparing a motion that day to revoke Zayn’s conditions of release for failing to report to pre-trial services; he also had a prior charge for criminal trespassing and assault on a police officer. Michael, a contractor, was remembered by friends as part of a happy couple who enjoyed video games and softball.

If anyone in Rio Rancho knew the Skinners or has information about what led to this killing, please share what is known.