ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — It’s been two years since Rosanna “Zan” Breuninger was struck and killed while riding her bike on a summer night in Albuquerque, and her family is still left with more questions than answers.
On July 22, 2023, Breuninger was cycling near 12th Street and Los Arboles Avenue when she was hit by a driver under disturbing circumstances. Investigators believe the individual who struck her took her body to her own apartment and left her there. Breuninger’s body was discovered the following morning.
Despite the time that has passed, no arrests have been made, and loved ones are still pleading for justice.
“We’ve had very little information come our way,” said Wendolyn Murphy, Breuninger’s sister. “My father has been in regular contact with APD, but he’s faced many roadblocks. It’s been incredibly disheartening. That’s why we’re leaning on our community to help us keep the search for answers alive.”
On the second anniversary of her death, friends and family gathered near the site of the crash to honor her memory. A ghost bike — a white-painted bicycle placed in memory of a fallen cyclist — stood adorned with flowers, while Breuninger’s nephew performed a Native American remembrance song.
“She had a beautiful spirit,” Murphy said. “Zan was kind, compassionate, and always willing to lend a hand. It’s hard to describe someone who meant so much to so many.”
Emotions ran high as attendees voiced frustration with the lack of resolution.
Also Read – UNM Students Work to Heal After Deadly Campus Shooting
“There’s someone out there continuing on with their life, possibly carrying guilt, but still living,” said Morningstar Angeline, a close friend. “Meanwhile, we live with this pain and the feeling that Zan’s life didn’t matter enough to warrant answers.”
Loved ones are urging city officials to take more steps toward promoting bike safety awareness in Albuquerque. They believe that community education could help prevent future tragedies.
“Why aren’t we seeing safety campaigns? Why isn’t there more outreach with resources for cyclists?” asked Cactus Eddie, a friend of Breuninger. “Something has to change.”
The Albuquerque Police Department confirmed that there are currently no new developments in the case. For Breuninger’s family, that silence has been difficult to bear. They’re now hoping that someone, somewhere, might come forward with the truth.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement. The family continues to call for accountability and hopes the person responsible will one day step forward.
