In the late afternoon of a Monday in Alamogordo, New Mexico, tragedy shattered the community's sense of peace. On September 25, 2023, Joseph Romo, a 42-year-old Hispanic male, became the victim of a fatal shooting that would leave his family and friends grappling with a sudden and profound loss. The incident unfolded at approximately 2:32 p.m. in the vicinity of the 3000 block of North Florida Avenue, at a local recreational area known as Hang Glider Park near Griggs Field.
Romo, a longtime and dedicated employee of the City of Alamogordo, was found by responding officers with multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency medical services were dispatched to the scene, and aid was rendered to Romo before he was transported to Gerald Champion Regional Medical Center. Despite the efforts to save him, Joseph Romo succumbed to his injuries. The investigation into his death was swiftly taken over by the 12th Judicial District Major Crimes Unit, a collaborative team of investigators from various local law enforcement agencies. At the scene, officers encountered another man who identified himself as the shooter, leading to a pivotal development in the case.
The individual who claimed responsibility for the shooting was identified as Logan Jacobs, a coworker of Romo's. According to reports, Jacobs admitted to shooting Romo multiple times. The two men had reportedly arranged to meet at the park to "settle their dispute on a personal issue." Further investigation into Jacobs' background revealed a history of brandishing and threatening individuals with firearms. In the wake of the incident, the City of Alamogordo terminated the employment of several individuals within the Parks and Recreation Department.
Logan Jacobs was subsequently arrested and charged with murder. A judge later ordered that he remain in custody until his trial. The death of Joseph Romo, described by his family as an "amazing man, a great father, perfect husband, and wonderful son," sent ripples of grief through the community. His family remembered him as the rock of their tight-knit family, a loyal and funny man who was always there for his children and loved ones. He was a 20-year veteran with the City of Alamogordo, having worked at the Monte Vista Cemetery, Desert Lakes Golf Course, and the Parks and Recreation Department. He was a man who took pride in his work, his family, and his passions, which included his lowriders and spending time with his family and friends.
