Paul Raymond Apodaca: A Detailed Account of His Crimes
Background
Paul Raymond Apodaca, born in New Mexico, had a history of violent offenses dating back to his youth. His criminal activities spanned several decades, culminating in the confession of multiple murders and sexual assaults committed during the late 1980s.
The Murder of Althea Oakeley
On June 22, 1988, 21-year-old University of New Mexico student Althea Oakeley was walking home from a fraternity party after an argument with her boyfriend. As she neared her residence on Buena Vista Drive SE, witnesses heard her screams. She was found stabbed and later died from her injuries. Apodaca, who was working as a security guard at the time, confessed to targeting Oakeley with the intent to sexually assault her but ended up fatally stabbing her when she smiled at him.
The Murder of Stella Gonzales
In the early hours of September 9, 1988, 13-year-old Stella Gonzales was walking with a friend along Central Avenue near Tingley Beach. Apodaca approached them in a vehicle and opened fire, fatally shooting Gonzales in the head. She was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to her injuries. This case remained unsolved for over three decades until Apodaca's confession in 2021.
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