Benjamin Hernandez, a 20-year-old male employee at a Sonic Drive-in in Las Cruces, New Mexico, was fatally shot on the evening of March 4, 2025. The incident occurred at approximately 9:40 p.m. at the restaurant located on Foothills Road. Emergency responders arrived to find Hernandez suffering from at least one gunshot wound. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that Hernandez had been involved in an argument or altercation with another
employee, 21-year-old Luciano Roman Valente Frias, inside the restaurant. At some point during the dispute, Frias produced a handgun and fired at least one round, striking Hernandez. Following the shooting, Frias fled the scene on foot, prompting an immediate search by law enforcement.
Las Cruces police launched an investigation and actively sought Frias, describing him as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighing around 130 pounds. Authorities urged anyone with information about his whereabouts to contact the police. The case quickly gained attention as officers worked to locate the suspect.
In a subsequent update, Frias was arrested in El Paso, Texas. His capture marked a significant development in the case, bringing some closure to the tragic event that claimed the life of Hernandez. The investigation continued as authorities processed evidence and prepared charges against Frias.
