Authorities apprehended a New Mexico teenager on Saturday morning following a chilling 911 call in which he confessed to killing his parents and two siblings. The 16-year-old, Diego Leyva, is now facing first-degree murder charges for the horrific incident that took place around 3:30 a.m., according to the New Mexico State Police.
Leyva reportedly told the 911 dispatcher that he had murdered his family members. Upon arrival at his residence in Belen, deputies found Leyva outside the house with his hands raised, ready for arrest. The state police reported that Leyva was heavily intoxicated at the time of his arrest, but was taken into custody without any complications.
Inside the house, authorities discovered a handgun on the kitchen table. The victims, identified as 42-year-old Leonardo Leyva, 35-year-old Adriana Bencomo, 16-year-old Adrian Leyva, and 14-year-old Alexander Leyva, were found inside the house, all suffering from gunshot wounds, according to law enforcement and local news outlet KRQE.
Following his arrest, Leyva was transported to a nearby hospital for detoxification. He was later moved to a juvenile justice center in Albuquerque early Sunday, as per official reports.
The shocking news of the incident left many in disbelief, including Vanessa LaGrange, a former teacher of Leyva. In a statement to the Guardian, LaGrange expressed her shock, stating that she could never have imagined Leyva capable of such a horrific act. She added that the entire community was in shock.
The state police investigative bureau is currently working to uncover the motive behind the brutal killings. The incident has left a deep impact on the community, and many are struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.