ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The University of New Mexico (UNM) campus was shaken by a deadly shooting early Friday morning, with law enforcement officials identifying the suspect as 18-year-old John Fuentes. Fuentes was arrested Friday afternoon by U.S. Marshals in Valencia County. The tragic incident left one individual dead and another injured at the Casas del Rio student housing complex, which serves as residence for many students, including those partaking in the university’s new student orientation.

The Incident

The shooting took place inside a unit at the Casas del Rio complex, located on the campus, at approximately 11:55 p.m. on Thursday, July 24, 2025. According to investigators, Fuentes and three others were present inside the apartment, hanging out and playing video games when the shooting occurred. The tragic result was that a 14-year-old boy was fatally shot, and a 19-year-old man sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

The names of the victims have not yet been released, as the authorities are still in the process of notifying next of kin. The 14-year-old’s presence in the housing complex remains unclear, and the investigation into the circumstances of his being there is ongoing. The shooting has left both the university community and the wider Albuquerque area reeling, as it was an event that unfolded during a busy period of student activity.

The Investigation and Arrest

Upon receiving the initial reports of gunfire, the UNM Police Department (UNMPD) immediately responded to the scene. Officers secured the area, ensuring that the victims received medical attention and beginning their work to ascertain the details surrounding the shooting. A significant number of officers and emergency personnel responded to the incident, as it raised immediate concerns due to the presence of students on the campus.

In the hours that followed, UNM Police issued a shelter-in-place order for students on campus, as authorities worked to confirm whether Fuentes was still on-site. This order was lifted later in the morning, although the crime scene remained active as law enforcement continued their investigation. Students housed in the nearby Gila building, which is close to the scene of the shooting, reported hearing four to five gunshots and described scenes of panic as students fled toward a nearby parking lot. Many students were in lockdown and sheltered in place for hours overnight as officers worked to secure the area.

Around 2:30 p.m. Friday, Fuentes was located and arrested in Los Lunas, New Mexico. Authorities confirmed that he was apprehended without incident. Following his arrest, officials from the New Mexico State Police, who are now leading the investigation, have stated that they believe this to be an isolated incident. No further suspects are being sought at this time, and there is no indication that the shooting was part of any wider scheme.

Campus Impact and Response

This shooting occurred during the university’s new student orientation, a time when incoming freshmen, including members of the UNM football team, were residing in the same building as the shooting took place. UNM officials have confirmed that none of the currently enrolled students or incoming freshmen appear to have been directly involved in the incident.

The impact of the shooting has been felt deeply by both the university and local community. Many students who were in the area during the shooting described the experience as terrifying, and social media posts from students and faculty alike highlighted the urgency and sense of fear that gripped the campus in the aftermath.

“Such a tragic incident,” said a tweet from the official UNM Police Department account. “We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety and security of all students. Please be safe and follow official instructions.”

The shelter-in-place order affected many students who were not involved in the incident, causing a disruption to what was supposed to be a celebratory time for incoming students. Law enforcement set up a tactical evacuation of students, guiding them from the affected buildings, making sure they left the area in an organized manner to prevent any further confusion or panic.

Community Support and Victims’ Needs

University officials have expressed their deep condolences for the victims of this tragedy and pledged support to all affected students. “Our hearts go out to the victims of this senseless act of violence,” said UNM President Garnett S. Stokes. “Our first priority is to ensure the safety of our students, faculty, and staff, and we are committed to supporting those affected by this tragedy.”

A series of counseling and support services are being made available to the students and families impacted by the incident. UNM Counseling Services, along with local mental health professionals, will be offering grief counseling and emotional support for students who may be dealing with the trauma caused by the shooting. Additionally, a community vigil is being planned for later this week to honor the victims and provide an opportunity for the community to come together in support of those affected.

Law Enforcement Calls for Public Help

As of now, the motive for the shooting remains unclear, and authorities are still gathering evidence, conducting interviews with witnesses, and piecing together the events that led up to the shooting. Authorities have urged anyone who might have any information about the incident to come forward.

“Every bit of information helps,” said Chief Brian O’Hara of the UNMPD. “If you were in the area and saw anything suspicious or unusual, we ask that you please contact us. The more we learn, the closer we get to understanding exactly what happened and why.”

Witnesses and community members are encouraged to reach out to the UNM Police Department at (505) 277-2241 or to submit anonymous tips via Albuquerque Metro Crime Stoppers at (505) 843-7867.

Next Steps

As investigators continue to analyze the evidence and review surveillance footage from around the area, the focus remains on piecing together the exact circumstances of the shooting. Officials are also working with local authorities to determine any possible connections between the suspect and the victims, and the precise nature of the altercation that may have led to this deadly event.

In the coming weeks, it is likely that additional updates will be released, shedding light on the details of the case. As it stands, however, the community remains shaken, and the grief from this senseless tragedy is palpable.

In the meantime, the families of the victims are left coping with the loss of their loved ones, and the university, along with the local community, continues to support those who are struggling with the aftermath. The investigation is ongoing, and further developments are expected as more information becomes available.