A dispute over auto parts in a New Mexico store escalated into a deadly confrontation, resulting in the arrest of a man and the death of two individuals, according to local law enforcement. Ismael Tena, 27, is currently facing two charges of first-degree murder, as indicated by jail records.
The incident unfolded at an O’Reilly Auto Parts store in Albuquerque, as reported by the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office. Tena and his father had visited the store to replace their vehicle’s oil filter. However, the situation took a tragic turn, resulting in the death of two store employees.
The father-son duo had visited the store on Sunday afternoon to exchange their oil filter, as per an arrest affidavit. Tena’s father informed the deputies that they had also asked for two additional oil bottles as the original ones were wasted due to an incorrect filter. A disagreement with the store staff ensued, leading Tena to allegedly take the oil he wanted and leave the store.
However, two store employees, Richard Newman, 47, and Jesus Valdez, 18, confronted Tena outside the store. Tena is accused of pulling out a gun and shooting both men. Newman died at the scene, while Valdez succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital.
Tena subsequently called 911, claiming he shot the men out of fear for his life, alleging they were physically assaulting him. However, law enforcement officials found no evidence to support Tena’s claims of being attacked by the store employees. No physical marks consistent with an attack were found on Tena, and no weapons were discovered that could be linked to the deceased men.
Tena was apprehended after his truck was pulled over by deputies approximately two miles from the O’Reilly’s store. Newman’s family members expressed their grief over the loss, describing him as a hardworking provider who would do anything for anyone.
Tena is currently being held without bond at the Metropolitan Detention Center. During a detention hearing on Friday, the judge decided to keep him detained until trial. The hearing highlighted two previous incidents involving Tena, gun violence, and him calling 911 on himself. The judge expressed concern over Tena’s impulsive behavior, as demonstrated in the current case.