Emilio Reyes C de Baca was a bright, funny, and loving young man from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The 22-year-old White man, born on August 10, 1998, was known for his love of rapping, skateboarding, fashion, and cooking. His family remembered that he showed his affection by teasing and making jokes, and that it was a blessing to have him in their lives. His grandfather recalled him as a "great kid" and a "big-hearted kid" who brought joy to everyone around him.
On Wednesday, June 16, 2021, Emilio’s life was cut short by gun violence. His body was found in the median along Western Trail near Unser Boulevard in northwest Albuquerque. An investigation determined he had been shot six times.
The Albuquerque Police Department began a homicide investigation, and their work quickly led to a suspect. On June 23, 2021, just one week after Emilio was found, detectives arrested 22-year-old Estevan Paiz in connection with the shooting death.
Paiz was subsequently charged in connection with Emilio's murder.
In the wake of their loss, Emilio's family created a roadside memorial, or "descanso," at the site where he was found. The tribute included a hand-made cross, candles, and rosaries, offering a place for loved ones to remember him and restore his dignity. Tragically, the memorial was vandalized and destroyed on two separate occasions in the months that followed, causing further pain for his grieving family, who filed police reports after everything was stolen.
As of August 2022, the criminal case against Estevan Paiz was proceeding through the legal system.
