In the small city of Gallup, New Mexico, a tragedy unfolded on February 17, 2023, that cut short the life of 15-year-old Teagan Rowdy Morgan. The young male was found unconscious inside a vehicle at Ford Canyon Veterans Memorial Park after a shooting incident. Despite being rushed to a local hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
Investigations into the teenager's death revealed that he had been involved in the sale of electronic vapor devices containing THC.
It was during one of these transactions that the fatal encounter occurred. An alleged attempt to rob Morgan of his vape products escalated, leading to the deadly shooting. Authorities believe the robbery was initiated with counterfeit cash before the vape products were seized.
In connection with the murder of Teagan Morgan, law enforcement arrested 18-year-old Valentino Gutierrez of Mentmore, New Mexico, on March 2, 2023. Gutierrez was subsequently charged with murder, conspiracy, armed robbery, and two counts of tampering with evidence. He was booked into the McKinley County Adult Detention Center. Officials have indicated that further charges could be brought against other individuals as the investigation progresses.
Teagan Rowdy Morgan was born on October 13, 2007, in Gallup. A graveside service to honor his memory was held on March 4, 2023, at the Pinehaven Community Cemetery in Pinehaven, New Mexico.
