A third suspect has been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting that occurred at Salopek Park on September 4, 2025. Las Cruces police detained Esteban Munoz, 19, on Wednesday. He faces felony charges of armed robbery and conspiracy to commit armed robbery.
Munoz is the latest to be arrested following the incident. Two other suspects, Elijah Sambrano and Apolinar Rosales, both 18, were previously taken into custody and charged. According to authorities, Sambrano is charged with aggravated battery that may cause death or bodily harm and tampering with evidence. Rosales faces charges of voluntary manslaughter and tampering with evidence, as well as a misdemeanor count of resisting or obstructing.
The shooting happened shortly before 4:30 p.m. near Salopek Park on the 400 block of Salopek Boulevard. Julia Clark, 19, was airlifted to University Medical Center of El Paso after the incident and died two days later on September 6. Another 19-year-old man was also shot and transported to a local hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening.
Authorities are asking anyone with additional information about the case to contact the police at (575) 526-0795.
The City of Las Cruces has also opened the draft West Picacho and Motel Boulevard Metropolitan Redevelopment Area (MRA) Plan for public review. Community members are encouraged to provide feedback as part of the planning process.
Election Day in Las Cruces is scheduled for November 4, 2025. Voters will select representatives for Districts 3, 5, and 6 councilor positions as well as Municipal Judge II.
In November 2024, Las Cruces voters approved a 0.325% Gross Receipts Tax increase to fund essential city projects.
The City has invited proposals from businesses and organizations interested in operating the Amador Live venue at 302 S. Main St. through a public-private partnership.
Las Cruces Utilities is developing a plan for the future use of natural gas in homes and businesses throughout the city.
Starting July 1, 2025, businesses filing taxes through the TAP Portal will need to use updated location codes as required by the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.
April is recognized as Safe Digging Month in Las Cruces. Residents are reminded to call 811 before digging to locate underground utilities.
The Lush and Lean program continues to help residents make efficient use of water resources by promoting sustainable gardening practices.
The City’s Utilities Department plans to implement a new latch system for trash carts over the next 18 months beginning in 2025.
