On the evening of September 14, 2025, Richard Newman, a 47-year-old man, was fatally shot at his place of employment, an O'Reilly Auto Parts store in southwest Albuquerque, New Mexico. The incident, which also resulted in the death of his 18-year-old coworker Jesus Valdez, stemmed from a dispute with a customer over an oil filter and motor oil.
The tragic events began when 27-year-old Ismael Tenna and his father entered the store to exchange an oil filter.
A disagreement ensued when Tenna was informed he was not entitled to free motor oil. Despite this, Tenna allegedly took some containers of oil and left the store. Newman and Valdez followed him into the parking lot, where the confrontation escalated. Tenna retrieved a gun from his truck and opened fire, striking both employees.
Richard Newman was found deceased in the parking lot when Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputies arrived at the scene. Jesus Valdez was discovered inside the store with at least one gunshot wound and died en route to the hospital. Tenna fled the scene but was later apprehended during a traffic stop. He was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of murder.
In the wake of the shooting, Tenna claimed he acted in self-defense, stating that the employees had become aggressive. However, authorities have asserted that evidence and witness testimony indicate Tenna was the aggressor who escalated the situation by introducing a firearm. Following his arrest, a judge ordered Tenna to be held in jail until his trial, deeming him a danger to the community. It was also revealed that Tenna had been involved in previous shooting incidents, though he had not been convicted in those cases.
Richard Newman was remembered by his family as a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His wife of over 30 years, June Newman, described him as the backbone of their family and a selfless individual who was always looking out for others. She believes he was trying to protect his young coworker when he was killed. Newman had recently been promoted to the position of store manager and was reportedly excited about his new role. He is survived by his wife, four sons, and a grandson.
