On November 26, 2020, 58-year-old Thomas Derick Velarde of Velarde, New Mexico, was fatally shot at the La Tiendita gas station on New Mexico State Road 68 in Alcalde. New Mexico State Police arrived after reports of a shooting around 11:30 a.m. and found Velarde deceased with an apparent gunshot wound to the head.

Officers identified 53-year-old Timothy Lopez, also of Velarde and owner of Wicked Kreations Winery, as the primary suspect. Witnesses said Lopez approached Velarde’s vehicle, drew a handgun, challenged him to face him like a man, and a struggle followed; Lopez then shot Velarde in the head. Lopez reportedly went into the gas station afterward and told employees to call 911, admitting he had shot someone. Lopez was taken into custody without incident and charged with first-degree murder and aggravated assault.

Velarde’s family and friends remembered him as a humble, gentle, and caring man known for his tile work and willingness to help others. Does anyone have information about Velarde’s life in the community or witnessed the confrontation that morning?