A shocking tragedy unfolded in Belen, New Mexico, where a 16-year-old has been arrested for allegedly murdering his entire family.
At a Glance
- Diego Leyva, 16, charged with four counts of first-degree murder in New Mexico.
- Leyva allegedly confessed to murdering family members while intoxicated.
- Victims identified as his parents and two siblings, found with gunshot wounds.
- State Police are now leading the investigation due to the gravity of the crime.
Disturbing Confession
In the early hours of December 14, Diego Leyva allegedly called 911 to confess to the brutal killings of his parents and siblings in their Belen, New Mexico home. Deputies responding to the emergency call found Leyva intoxicated but compliant. Before surrendering, he allegedly admitted to shooting his family members. The specific motives behind this tragic act remain under investigation.
The victims were identified as Leonardo Leyva, 42, Adriana Bencomo, 35, and two teenage brothers, Adrian and Alexander Leyva. All were reported dead from gunshot wounds by the deputy officers who arrived at the crime scene. Most disturbingly, this atrocity was conducted by a member of their own family under shocking circumstances.
Teenager Murders his family … Quadruple Homicide in New Mexico
Suspect: Diego Leyva, 16
Belen, New Mexico
12/14/24“New Mexico State Police Investigate Quadruple Homicide in Belen
On December 14, 2024, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to… pic.twitter.com/MAepDVfAwh
— SubX.News® (@SubxNews) December 16, 2024
Crisis Response
The deadly shooting has left the citizens of Belen in shock. With no prior warning signs known, this tragedy raises questions about how such a young individual could commit such a horrific act. A handgun was found on the kitchen table, and Diego Leyva was subsequently taken to a hospital for detoxification before being housed at the Juvenile Justice Center, facing four open murder charges.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic event involving the killing of his family by a BHS student this past Saturday. Our hearts go out to the victims, their loved ones and everyone impacted by this devastating loss.” – superintendent Lawrence Sanchez
The Belen Consolidated Schools district steps in, offering increased counseling services for coping with the aftermath. The obligation is now on community leaders and law enforcement to seek measures that prevent tragic events like this from recurring.
A Belen, New Mexico, teenager has been charged with four counts of murder after he allegedly killed his family while “extremely intoxicated,” New Mexico State Police said. https://t.co/HO7dicL5PG
— KAMR Local 4 News (@KAMRLocal4News) December 16, 2024
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement is actively working to understand the full scope of why and how this tragic incident occurred, conducting numerous interviews to piece together what led to this harrowing outcome. State Police have assumed control of the case, which still leaves many questions unanswered. The Office of the Medical Examiner is involved in the meticulous work of autopsying all victims, striving for as much clarity as possible.
“Wilson said the county sheriff’s office handed the case over to the State Police for investigation of the quadruple homicide.” – Ray Wilson
The continuing investigations aim to unveil any root causes, ensuring the community of Belen has the ability to heal and emerge stronger despite this senseless act of violence.
