Jonathan Garza was a father, personal trainer, and business owner known for his beautiful smile and kind heart. A 30-year-old Black man who grew up in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he was described as a hard-working and motivated person who was always helpful and encouraging. He had worked for the city and for organizations serving adults with disabilities before pursuing his passion for fitness and bodybuilding. His greatest joy was spending time with his daughter, Anayjah.
His family remembered him as a hero and a sweet soul who “never gave up” and made each day his best.
On the night of February 19, 2022, a fight broke out among a group of people gathered outside Canvas Artistry, a downtown bar at One Central Avenue in Albuquerque. Witnesses said Jonathan, a well-known fitness trainer, was defending his brother and trying to break up the altercation. Shortly after the fight, someone shot Jonathan several times. He died from his injuries.
Albuquerque Police Department detectives launched an investigation, using witness descriptions of the shooter, surveillance video, social media, and cell phone data to piece together what happened. The investigation led them to identify three suspects. In May 2022, police arrested 19-year-old Isaac Martinez and charged him with murder. Later, Alejandro Barton and Armando Martinez were also arrested in connection with Jonathan's death, with the final arrest of Armando Martinez taking place in August 2023.
Two of the men later entered plea agreements for their roles in the crime. Armando Martinez admitted to helping cover up the murder and was sentenced to 18 months of supervised probation. Alejandro Barton pleaded guilty to tampering with evidence and conspiracy and was sentenced to 6.5 years in prison.
Investigators identified Isaac Martinez as the person who opened fire and killed Jonathan Garza. As of 2024, Isaac Martinez was scheduled to stand trial for the murder in December.
