1. Albuquerque Man Found Guilty in 2022 Fatal South Valley Shooting
Joseph Gonzales was convicted Thursday of second-degree murder in connection with the 2022 shooting death of Abner Antillon in the South Valley. The deadly encounter, which was caught on surveillance footage, occurred after a confrontation escalated. A previous trial had ended without a verdict due to a hung jury.
2. Man Arrested After Attempting to Meet Minor in Park
New video footage reveals the moment Albuquerque police arrested 25-year-old Karim Vargas, who believed he was meeting a 15-year-old girl named “Ashlee” at Mary Fox Park. Instead, detectives were waiting. Vargas had agreed to bring money, condoms, and a Reese’s candy bar to the meetup. He now faces serious charges including attempted criminal sexual penetration of a minor and solicitation.
3. Storms and Rising Heat Expected Across New Mexico
New Mexico will see another wave of afternoon thunderstorms Friday, especially across the northeastern part of the state where a few severe storms could develop. Heavy rainfall and flash flood risks remain high. Warmer temperatures are also expected, with drier conditions likely moving in by Saturday and widespread sunshine forecasted for Sunday.
4. Albuquerque Rail Trail Progresses Toward Completion
The city’s ambitious seven-mile Rail Trail project is making strides, with two major segments nearing completion. A section in the Sawmill District is expected to be finished by October, and another near Central and 1st is also underway. Officials are in the planning phase for the next segment, which would connect the BioPark, Old Town streets, and the bosque.
5. Kitten Takeover Raises Thousands for Animal Shelter
Animal Humane New Mexico met its $5,000 fundraising goal thanks to a playful campaign led by kittens who “took over” the shelter’s digital presence. As part of the campaign, the executive director, Val Wilson, was humorously “locked” in a kennel until donations were met. The lighthearted event successfully rallied community support for animals in need.
