On November 19, 2020, 36-year-old Elizabeth Martinez was found deceased in her residence on Franciscan Street in northeast Albuquerque, New Mexico. Responding to a 911 call reporting a shooting, Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office deputies arrived at the scene to discover multiple bullet holes on the exterior of the home. Upon entering, they found Martinez had succumbed to an apparent gunshot wound.
Following a thorough investigation, BCSO Homicide Detectives identified
26-year-old Christopher Montoya as the primary suspect. Montoya was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in connection to Martinez's death. His criminal history is extensive, including charges such as aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, receiving a stolen firearm, aggravated DWI, multiple domestic violence incidents, various drug-related offenses, and numerous probation violations.
Sheriff Manuel Gonzales III expressed condolences to Martinez's family, highlighting concerns about Montoya's repeated releases despite his violent criminal record. He emphasized the commitment of BCSO detectives to pursue justice diligently in this case. Community members have mourned Martinez's loss, lighting candles and sharing memories to honor her life.
