On July 15, 2019, Jose Ruben Diaz, a 45-year-old father of two, was shot and killed in his work truck near the Big I interchange in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Police say the shooter, 51-year-old Donald Duquette, pulled alongside Diaz’s pickup and fired several bullets; one struck Diaz in the head and proved fatal. Co-workers described Diaz as kind and having no known enemies.

Investigators reported Duquette was under the influence of methamphetamine and acting on a delusional belief that Diaz posed a threat to a friend. Duquette did not immediately surrender; more than 18 hours after Diaz’s body was found he went to New Mexico State Police headquarters and confessed. He was booked on an open count of murder and related charges.

The case went to trial in January 2023. Prosecutors said Duquette fired a 45-caliber handgun at Diaz’s truck. Duquette’s defense did not contest the shooting but raised mental health and substance issues. On June 2, 2023, Duquette was sentenced to 14 years in prison for second-degree murder. Anyone with memories of Jose Diaz or information about the shooting is asked to come forward.