On April 30, 2021, in Española, New Mexico, 45-year-old resident Rocky Gonzales was fatally shot outside his home on N.M. 76, also known as Santa Cruz Road. The incident occurred when Anthony Trujillo, then 28, drove to Gonzales' residence with a friend, purportedly to purchase cocaine. Upon their arrival, Gonzales, who was inside the house with his girlfriend, confronted the two men, instructing them to leave his property.
An argument ensued, during which Trujillo unexpectedly drew a firearm and shot Gonzales multiple times, resulting in his death.
Following the shooting, Española police launched an investigation that led to the arrest of Anthony Trujillo on May 5, 2021. He was apprehended outside a Starbucks and charged with first-degree murder, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, shooting at an inhabited dwelling, and possession of a firearm by a felon. Trujillo had a prior felony conviction from 2018 for attempted trafficking and heroin possession.
In April 2023, as part of a plea agreement, Trujillo pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, and tampering with evidence. The agreement stipulated a 25-year prison sentence. Defense attorney Anna Aragon noted that Trujillo accepted the plea deal, partly due to the potential for enhanced sentencing because of his prior felony conviction.
The tragic death of Rocky Gonzales underscores the persistent issues of drug-related violence and firearm offenses in the Española community. Local authorities continue to address these challenges, striving to enhance public safety and prevent similar incidents in the future.
