In Santa Fe, New Mexico, on June 4, 2026, 28-year-old Victoria “Tori” Isabella Romero’s life was tragically cut short in her home. A graduate of Pecos High School, Victoria was a dedicated mother to two sons and was building a career as a senior paralegal for the New Mexico Public Education Department. Known for her intelligence, confidence, and sense of humor, she was a beloved daughter, sister, and friend to many in her community.
Her unexpected death left her family and friends in profound grief.
The circumstances surrounding Victoria’s death became clearer when Santa Fe Police were dispatched to her residence on Chalan Road for a welfare check. The request was made by an individual who was dating Victoria and had become concerned after a troubling phone call. The caller reported that they had missed a call from Victoria and upon calling back, her estranged husband, 31-year-old Xavier Romero, answered and questioned them about their relationship with her before the call ended. This prompted the call to the police to check on her well-being.
Upon their arrival, officers discovered the bodies of both Victoria and Xavier Romero inside the home. Both had sustained at least one gunshot wound and were beyond medical help. Investigators from the Santa Fe Police Department processed the scene and conducted an investigation into the events that led to the two deaths. The investigation concluded that the incident was a murder-suicide, with Xavier Romero being the sole suspect in Victoria's death. Because the suspect took his own life, the case did not proceed to an arrest or trial. The case is a somber reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence.
