Albuquerque police have made a second arrest in connection with a shooting in January that left one teenager dead and another injured. The latest arrest, of a 17-year-old, is tied to an alleged illegal gun sale that preceded the shooting in Southwest Albuquerque, according to authorities.
The shooting occurred on January 21, 2026, and resulted in the death of Ethan Cruz, 17. A teenage girl was also injured in the incident. The initial arrest in the case was made earlier this year, and this second arrest represents a significant development in the ongoing investigation. The case highlights the dangers associated with illegal firearm transactions and the tragic consequences of gun violence impacting young people in the Albuquerque area.
Details of the Shooting and Arrests
Police say the shooting stemmed from a planned gun sale. The location of the shooting was a gas station in Southwest Albuquerque, though specific details about the gas station have not been released. The first teen was arrested shortly after the shooting, and the second was apprehended recently, according to police statements. Both individuals are 17 years old, and their names have not been publicly released due to their age.
The Albuquerque Journal reported that the shooting was directly linked to an illegal gun sale. The investigation revealed that the firearm used in the shooting was obtained through an illicit transaction. Authorities have not yet released details about where the gun originated or how the teens came into contact with each other.
Ethan Cruz Remembered
Ethan Cruz, known affectionately as “Javi,” was remembered by family and friends following his death. Salazar Funeral Homes & Crematory published an obituary for Cruz in January. The loss has deeply impacted the Albuquerque community, prompting calls for increased efforts to address youth violence and gun safety.
Investigation Continues
The Albuquerque Police Department is continuing to investigate the shooting. Detectives are working to determine the full sequence of events leading up to the incident and to identify any other individuals who may have been involved. Police arrested the first teen for deadly shooting at southwest Albuquerque gas station.
Authorities have not released information about the specific charges the two teens will face. Still, given the severity of the crime, We see expected that they will be charged with serious offenses, potentially including murder and aggravated assault. The case is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges related to youth violence and the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent such tragedies.
A second teen was arrested for the January murder in Albuquerque.
Underage Teen Arrested for Murder in Illegal Firearm Sale in Allsup’s Parking Lot.
As the investigation progresses, authorities are urging anyone with information about the shooting to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Albuquerque Police Department. The community is encouraged to support efforts to address youth violence and promote safer neighborhoods.
The Albuquerque Police Department will continue to provide updates as the investigation unfolds. The focus remains on bringing those responsible for this tragic incident to justice and preventing similar events from occurring in the future.
If you or someone you realize is struggling with grief or mental health challenges, please reach out for help. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
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