Deranged Nephew Sought in Brutal Assault on Elderly Aunt and Suspected Arson

Albuquerque –

The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office urges the public to help locate Richard Paul Seago Jr., who faces charges of Aggravated Battery and Arson after a violent assault and fire that seriously injured his 82-year-old aunt, Elizabeth Bass.

At approximately 11:41 PM on August 10, 2025, North Area Command deputies responded to a home in the 7700 block of Cedar Canyon Pl NE after Bass called 911, reporting that someone had attacked her while she slept. She suffered severe head and facial injuries and couldn’t leave the home on her own.

When deputies arrived, they encountered intense heat and heavy smoke inside the residence. Working with Bernalillo County Fire Rescue, first responders rescued Bass from the home and transported her to the University of New Mexico Hospital, where she remains in serious condition under medical care.

Investigators identified Seago, Bass’s nephew who had recently been staying in the home, as the primary suspect. They gathered evidence showing the fire had been intentionally set. Detectives believe Seago fled the state and continues to evade arrest.

Suspect Information:

• Name: Richard Paul Seago Jr.
• DOB: August 6, 1971
• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 225 lbs
• Hair: Brown
• Eyes: Blue

A warrant has been issued for Seago’s arrest. If you have information on Richard Seago’s whereabouts:

• Submit a tip through the “Submit a Tip” tab at https://www.bernco.gov/bernalillo-county-sheriff/tip411/
• Text BCSO and your tip to 847411
• Call BCSO Dispatch at (505) 798-7000

To remain anonymous, submit a tip through the BCSO app, their website, or by texting 847411.

BCSO reminds the public that this remains an active investigation. Updates will be provided as appropriate.