Felix A. Martinez, 47, was shot dead on February 17, 2018, at the home and business of Michael Romero on South Commerce Street in Las Vegas, New Mexico. Romero, 48 at the time, was accused of the shooting. Romero told authorities he acted to protect his son, alleging Martinez intended to harm the son while he was sleeping. Romero fled the scene and was considered armed and dangerous; police issued a warrant charging him with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence.

Martinez was born October 1, 1970, in Springer, New Mexico, and worked as a self-employed auto mechanic for about 30 years. He was described as a hardworking man who provided for his family. He is survived by three sons, Jeremiah, Jerome, and Jericho Martinez, their mother Roberta Armijo, and a granddaughter, Ayvah Martinez. Funeral services were held at Santa Clara Church in Wagon Mound, with burial at Santa Clara Cemetery.

Romero was believed to be driving a blue, late 1980s Toyota 4Runner with a Chihuahua, Mexico plate and was sought by police; Crime Stoppers offered a $500 reward for information. Anyone with information about Romero’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Las Vegas Police Department or Crime Stoppers.