Michael Barela, 59, was shot and killed on March 29, 2021, outside a home on New Mexico State Road 519 in Petaca. The Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Office investigated the shooting and arrested 43-year-old Bonita Burkeimer, who was charged in connection with Barela’s death.

The same location was the scene of a separate fatal shooting in which 53-year-old Anthony Pena was charged with killing Larry Herrera; that incident is described as distinct from Barela’s killing. Barela’s obituary described his death as sudden and unexpected, and his family and community were left grieving.

If anyone knew Michael Barela or has information about the events on March 29, 2021, please come forward to the Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Office.