In the early morning hours of December 14, a chilling 911 call was made by a 16-year-old boy, identified as Diego Leyva, confessing to the murder of his parents. New Mexico State Police reported that the call led to the discovery of a gruesome scene at a residence in the city of Balen, Valencia County.
Upon arrival at the Camino Escondido home, Valencia County sheriff’s deputies found Leyva outside the residence, hands raised in surrender, and heavily under the influence of alcohol. He was apprehended without any resistance, according to the police report.
Inside the home, deputies discovered a horrifying scene. Four individuals were found dead, each from suspected gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as Leonardo Leyva, 42, Adriana Bencomo, 35, Adrian Leyva, 17, and Alexander Leyva, 14. A handgun was found on the kitchen table, further supporting the initial suspicion of a shooting.
Diego Leyva now faces four counts of first-degree murder. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the community, particularly the Rio Communities Fire Department, where Bencomo had served as a volunteer firefighter for several years.
The department expressed their grief over the loss, stating, “Valencia County, Rio Communities and our brothers and sisters at RCFD are shocked and saddened by this unexpected loss.”
Under New Mexico law, Leyva, as a “serious youthful offender” — a minor who is at least 15 and indicted for first-degree murder — can be tried in children’s court and given an adult sentence. However, he cannot be sentenced to life without the possibility of release or parole.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence within families and communities. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of four of its members, grappling with the shocking reality of the situation.