Jonathan Cordova, a 40-year-old male from Chimayo, New Mexico, tragically lost his life on December 29, 2024. His passing has left his family and community in mourning, as he was remembered as a respectful, loving, and kind individual. Jonathan was a journeyman carpenter by trade and had a deep passion for hunting and fishing. He was engaged to his fiancée, Hilarie, and was a devoted father to their daughter, Alyssa.
His obituary described him as someone who enjoyed laughter, tight hugs, and offering a helping hand to those in need.
Authorities have charged 34-year-old Raymond Romero with first-degree murder in connection with the death of Jonathan Cordova. Romero, a resident of Rio Chiquito, was arrested on the night of the killing in Española on an unrelated drug possession charge. Police noted in court records that he was suspected of involvement in a homicide earlier that day. Officers conducted a high-risk stop on Romero in a McDonald's parking lot, where they found cocaine in his possession. His vehicle, a black Nissan Rogue, was identified as the suspected vehicle in the homicide investigation.
Court records related to the case have been sealed by an order from Rio Arriba County Magistrate Alexandra Naranjo. Romero was booked into the Santa Fe County jail but was released several days later. Reports indicate that the homicide may have been linked to a dispute over a $10 debt. Both Jonathan Cordova and Raymond Romero were longtime residents of the area, and the circumstances surrounding the killing remain under investigation.
