In the early hours of December 19, 2023, a violent altercation inside a downtown Albuquerque gentlemen's club tragically ended the life of 37-year-old Hispanic male, Earl Thomas Romo. The incident unfolded at approximately 1:30 a.m. at Knockouts Gentlemen's Club, where a dispute between two groups escalated into a fatal shooting. Responding officers discovered Romo with gunshot wounds, and despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries.
A 16-year-old, Louis Mugishawimana, was
identified as the suspect and was apprehended at the scene after a bystander reportedly tackled him. Mugishawimana was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and other offenses. Despite his age, the severity of the crime led to him being indicted as an adult. In January 2024, he entered a plea of not guilty and remained in custody. Ultimately, Mugishawimana pleaded no contest and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.
The investigation into the shooting also resulted in charges against a 23-year-old employee of the club, Pawnthipe Mune-Ath. She was charged with unlawfully carrying a firearm into the establishment on the night of the incident, claiming she was off-duty and had retrieved the weapon from her vehicle. The tragic event raised serious questions about the club's security measures and its adherence to state regulations. The New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Department cited Knockouts for multiple violations, including allowing a minor on the premises and serving alcohol to a minor. Romo's grieving family publicly called for the club's closure, citing ongoing safety concerns.
