On a Thursday afternoon in Santa Fe, New Mexico, the vibrant life of Ernestine Saucedo, a 32-year-old female, was tragically cut short. On July 11, 2019, she and her husband, 34-year-old Jessie Saucedo, were discovered in their vehicle, parked between two state government buildings. Both had sustained fatal gunshot wounds. The discovery outside the Jerry Apodaca Education Building, where Ernestine worked as an executive budget analyst supervisor for the state's Public Education Department, sent
shockwaves through the community.
Ernestine was not only a dedicated state employee but also a celebrated Tejano-style singer, performing under her maiden name, Ernestine Romero. Known for her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence, she had released multiple albums and was a beloved figure in the New Mexico music scene. She had just celebrated her birthday the day before the incident. The news of her violent death left fans and loved ones in a state of disbelief and profound grief.
Investigators arriving at the scene found a firearm inside the SUV. Initially, details were sparse, but police quickly assured the public that there was no outstanding suspect at large. The investigation soon revealed the tragic nature of the event. Evidence pointed to a murder-suicide perpetrated by Jessie Saucedo. The Office of the Medical Investigator determined that Jessie shot his wife twice in the chest before turning the gun on himself, dying from a single self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.
Further investigation into their lives revealed a complicated relationship. Although legally married, Ernestine and Jessie had been living apart for several weeks prior to the shooting. Records also showed a history of domestic disputes, painting a somber picture of the turmoil that preceded the fatal encounter. In the end, the case was closed with Jessie Saucedo identified as the sole suspect in the murder of his wife, leaving a community to mourn the loss of a talented artist and public servant taken far too soon.
