Teenager’s Arrest Shocks Belen: A Grim Incident Unfolds

A chilling scene unfolded in Belen, New Mexico, when a teenager was apprehended for the suspected murder of his family.

At a Glance

16-year-old Diego Leyva is charged with four counts of first-degree murder.
Authorities discovered four family members dead from gunshot wounds in their Belen home.
Leyva contacted 911, admitting to the crime, and surrendered without incident.
The investigation has been taken over by State Police.

Teen’s Disturbing Confession

Diego Leyva, a 16-year-old from Belen, New Mexico, has been charged with the murder of his parents and siblings. In a shocking turn of events, Leyva allegedly called 911 at around 3:30 a.m. to confess to the killings. Responding deputies found the teen intoxicated but cooperative. As they arrived, “Diego walked out of the residence with his hands in the air and was extremely intoxicated,” according to the state police.

The aftermath revealed the tragic deaths of Leonardo Leyva, 42; Adriana Bencomo, 35; and the suspect’s siblings, Adrian, 16, and Alexander, 14. All succumbed to gunshot wounds, leading investigators to search for a motive behind this grim act. A handgun was reportedly found on the kitchen table.

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

Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation

Following the confession and arrest, Leyva was taken to a hospital for detoxification prior to being placed in the Juvenile Justice Center. The severity of the incident prompted the county sheriff’s office to hand over the case to the State Police for thorough investigation. Leyva faces multiple charges, though his exact motive remains a mystery as interviews continue “to learn what led up to these tragic events”.

Belen Consolidated Schools are assisting the affected community, with Superintendent Lawrence Sanchez emphasizing the provision of mental health support in the aftermath. “We are deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic event involving the killing of his family by a BHS student this past Saturday,” said Sanchez, acknowledging the shared grief and the importance of community vigilance.

Repercussions and Community Response

The somber incident has left the local community grappling with its aftermath, as the school district collaborates with law enforcement and community leaders to prevent such tragedies. Offering additional counseling services to students demonstrates their commitment to mental health awareness.

The ongoing investigation strives to illuminate motivations and prevent recurrence while serving as a sobering reminder of the importance of community and mental health vigilance. As more details emerge, the case continues to capture the nation’s conscious attention.