With deep sorrow and heartbreak, the Albuquerque community is mourning the tragic and senseless loss of Estevan Gomez, whose life was cut short during a violent shooting in downtown Albuquerque early Saturday morning.
According to the Albuquerque Police Department, the fatal shooting happened around 4 a.m. Saturday near the intersection of 3rd Street and Copper Avenue. Investigators say Gomez and a co-worker had just left a downtown nightclub and were looking for their vehicle when they mistakenly approached another car, believing it was theirs. Police said the two attempted to enter the vehicle, but it was locked.
Authorities report that Edwin Sanders witnessed the incident and accused Gomez and his co-worker of trying to break into the vehicle. Police say the men attempted to explain the misunderstanding and began to walk away. However, once they located their actual car, Sanders allegedly followed them while armed with a handgun.
Investigators say Sanders then demanded money from the men. As Gomez attempted to drive away from the situation, police report Sanders fired into the vehicle, striking the back window. Gomez was fatally wounded in the shooting and died from his injuries.
Following the deadly encounter, police launched an investigation and later tracked Sanders to his home, where he was located and arrested.
Sanders now faces multiple charges, including an open count of murder, attempted armed robbery, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, as well as charges involving firearms or destructive devices and transportation or possession by certain persons.
The death of Estevan Gomez has left a painful void in the hearts of those who knew him. His life was taken in an instant, in a moment of violence that never should have happened. Family and friends are now left mourning a loved one who should have made it home safely, while the city reflects on yet another life lost far too soon.
As the case moves forward, many continue to remember Estevan Gomez not for the way he died but for the life he lived and the memories he leaves behind.
