Aeriel Marina Gallegos, a 19-year-old resident of Aztec, New Mexico, tragically lost her life on December 18, 2023, in an apparent murder-suicide incident in San Juan County. Gallegos was found deceased at 2:52 a.m. in an RV on a property located on County Road 5457. When deputies entered the RV bedroom, they discovered Gallegos lying face-down in bed with a fatal gunshot wound to her head.
The suspect in this case was identified as Manuel Weahkee, 22, who was Gallegos' former boyfriend
and the father of their child. Weahkee was found deceased at 2:41 a.m. at his home on County Road 4800, having reportedly taken his own life. The investigation revealed a history of domestic violence between Gallegos and Weahkee. In August, Gallegos had filed a 15-page petition for an order of protection from domestic abuse, detailing multiple physical attacks by Weahkee dating back to August 2021.
According to court records, Weahkee had a history of violent behavior and suicidal tendencies. In April 2020, deputies responded to an incident where Weahkee had reportedly cut himself and barricaded himself in his room. He was charged with battery on a peace officer, but the charges were later dismissed. In July 2021, Weahkee was involved in another altercation with family members, resulting in aggravated battery charges that were also dismissed.
The San Juan County Sheriff's Office confirmed that there would be no further investigation into the incident. They also stated that the child of Gallegos and Weahkee was unharmed and not present during the tragic events. The community was left shocked by this devastating loss, as Gallegos was remembered as a loving and caring mother, daughter, and sister.
