Boy Killed in Gang Shooting – Mistaken Identity
Two men received life sentences plus 46 years for murdering an 11-year-old in New Mexico, leading to gun violence discussions and policy changes, including a temporary firearms suspension.
Life sentences Handed Down in New Mexico Shooting Death
Updated June 20,2025
Jose Romero and Nathen Garley,both convicted in February for the first-degree murder of an 11-year-old boy,along wiht attempted murder and other charges,have been sentenced to life in prison plus 46 years. The sentencing, handed down on Monday, June 16, comes nearly two years after the fatal shooting.
Froylan Villegas, who was killed in the shooting.” loading=”lazy” srcset=”https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/article35423424.ece/ALTERNATES/s458b/0_SDC_MDG_-_12326JPG.jpg 458w, https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/article35423424.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_SDC_MDG_-_12326JPG.jpg 615w,https://i2-prod.mirror.co.uk/article35423424.ece/ALTERNATES/s1200e/0_SDC_MDG_-_12326JPG.jpg 1200w” sizes=”(max-width: 458px) 458px, (max-width: 615px) 615px, 1200px” />
Froylan Villegas was shot in the head
Bernalillo County district Attorney Sam Bregman stated he hopes the verdict brings “some sort of peace and justice to Froylan’s family.”
Tatiana Villegas, speaking to KOAT, said her family is happy that justice was served for Froylan. She added that they are ready to close this chapter and move forward.
Prosecutors said that surveillance footage, ballistic evidence, and eyewitness accounts were key to securing the convictions.
jose Romero, 22 (left); Nathen Garley, 23 (right)
(Image:
Albuquerque Police Department
)
Following the shooting, New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham declared gun violence a public health emergency on Sept. 7. The next day, she announced a 30-day ban on openly carrying firearms in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. This public health order was updated on Sept. 15, replacing the firearms provision with a temporary suspension of carrying firearms at parks and playgrounds in Albuquerque and Bernalillo County.
What’s next
The sentencings conclude a notable chapter in a case that spurred intense debate over gun control and public safety in New Mexico. The focus now shifts to the ongoing efforts to address gun violence and support the affected communities.