On July 15, 2020, Ivan Armando Perez Chumacero, a 17-year-old resident of Santa Fe, New Mexico, lost his life to gun violence. The incident occurred at the Jaguar Drive apartments, specifically at The Bluffs apartment complex, located on the Southside of Santa Fe.
Ivan Perez, who was a rising senior at Capital High School, was found dead in the parking lot of the apartment complex. According to the Santa Fe police, Perez died from gunshot wounds to his chest.
In addition to Ivan's death, a second male in his late teens was also found with gunshot wounds at the scene. This second victim, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was transported to Christus St. Vincent Medical Center, where he underwent surgery and was listed in stable condition.
The investigation led by the Santa Fe police resulted in the apprehension of a suspect. Mario Guizar-Anchondo, also 17 and a resident of Santa Fe, was arrested for his alleged involvement in the deadly altercation. Guizar-Anchondo was taken into custody with the assistance of the Santa Fe County sheriff's department. An arrest warrant had been issued for him earlier in the day, charging him with an open count of murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.
Guizar-Anchondo, described as someone 'known to police' prior to this incident, was reportedly standing outside a vehicle when he fired the shots. However, the police were unable to provide a description of the vehicle he left in or confirm whether he was alone when he departed the scene. The investigation involved interviewing several individuals who were present at the time of the incident, but none of them were identified as suspects or persons of interest.
The community was deeply affected by Ivan's death, which marked the second loss in a short period for his friend group. Sergio Perez, a 2020 Capital High School graduate and friend of Ivan's, noted that Ivan was the second person in their friend group to be killed in recent months, following the stabbing death of Aiko Perez in June. It was clarified that the three individuals with the surname Perez were not related.
Ivan was remembered fondly by his school community. Capital High Principal Jaime Holladay expressed her sadness over the news, highlighting Ivan's passion for music and his memorable smile. The Santa Fe Public Schools Superintendent, Dr. Veronica C. Garcia, issued a statement expressing the district's shock and offering support to Ivan's loved ones, students, and staff. The SFPS Wellness Team collaborated with local organizations to provide free behavioral health support services for those affected by the tragedy.
The case underscores the tragic impact of violence on young lives and the community at large, with ongoing efforts to support those grieving and to ensure justice is served.
