Bayard, NM – New Mexico State Police have arrested Anthony Aveles, 61, following two violent incidents on November 1. Officers allege Aveles opened fire on his girlfriend on US-180 near milepost 119, then fatally shot his son-in-law in Bayard.
The Grant County Sheriff’s Office received a report of shots fired around 2 p.m. The 54-year-old female victim reported that her boyfriend, Aveles, had fired at her while she drove. Although injured, she suffered non-life-threatening wounds and received treatment at a nearby hospital.
Shortly afterward, officers responded to another shooting report at a residence on 500 N. East Street in Bayard. They found David Ruiz, 46, deceased at the scene. Aveles’ estranged wife informed police that Aveles had killed her son-in-law, Ruiz.
Police located Aveles at 705 Rogers Street, where he surrendered without incident. Authorities later interviewed Aveles, who allegedly confessed, claiming jealousy over an affair between Ruiz and his girlfriend motivated his actions.
Aveles faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, attempted murder, and shooting at a motor vehicle. This case remains under active investigation.
