Ebony Faith Martinez, a 23-year-old resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, tragically lost her life on September 30, 2024, in a double homicide incident. Martinez was found dead alongside 19-year-old Abraham Dominic Romo in a black Cadillac SUV that had veered off the road into an arroyo near the intersection of Siringo Road and Camino Consuelo.
The Santa Fe Police Department responded to a noise complaint in the area around 11 p.m. on September 30.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the SUV and encountered a male suspect, later identified as 23-year-old Manuel Joseph Martinez, who was covered in blood and attempting to flee the scene. After a brief chase, the suspect was apprehended, and a firearm was recovered.
Manuel Joseph Martinez was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder, one count of tampering with evidence, and two counts of resisting and obstructing an officer. Both victims appeared to have sustained at least one gunshot wound, with autopsies revealing that the bullet entry wounds on both victims came from the back of the head and exited through the front in a downward trajectory.
The suspect has a criminal history, including recent charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and trafficking a controlled substance. He had been arrested on September 22, 2024, for these charges but was released on personal recognizance with conditions of release. Martinez also had previous arrests for domestic abuse and strangulation, though these cases were dismissed without prejudice.
During a detention and preliminary hearing, Martinez's defense attorney suggested the possibility of self-defense, citing the suspect's statements to police that 'they tried to kill me'. However, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ordered Martinez to remain in custody pending trial, citing evidence that indicated he was aware of his actions.
Ebony Faith Martinez was born on December 10, 2000, and was described as a strong, bright, intelligent, and beautiful soul with an infectious smile and mesmerizing laugh. Her untimely death has left a void in the lives of her family and friends, who remember her as a devoted mother, daughter, granddaughter, sister, and friend.
