Man Claims to Be Jesus Christ, Punches Woman and Spits on Officer

Albuquerque –

26-year-old Nathaniel Way of Albuquerque, was arrested inside the U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union located at 7201 Menaul Blvd NE, on February 23rd, 2026 after a short standoff with the Albuquerque Police Department.

According to a criminal complaint, Way began his day by throwing rocks towards businesses at Coronado Mall and pacing back and forth in the area. A woman was in the parking lot of the mall smoking a cigarette, when, Way approached her and began to punch her in the face. He grabbed her bag with personal items and fled east toward Menaul Blvd.

At some point Way entered the U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union and barricaded himself in a room. We were on scene at the credit union and saw a massive police presence closing Menaul in both directions. The credit union employees were able to evacuate the building while this crazed man was inside.

APD used SWAT and K9 officers to go into the bank and apprehend Way. After Way was brought outside the bank, we watched him being searched by officers when we watched him randomly yelled, “Fuck!” and then spat in an officer’s face. The complaint says when they tried to identify him he said his name was “Jesus Christ.”

Contrary to being a sinless man, Way was charged with robbery, aggravated robbery, battery upon a peace officer, and resisting, evading or obstructing an officer.

The woman was checked out by rescue personnel and her injuries were documented by an APD crime scene investigator.

Way also was booked on warrants from 2025 ranging from criminal damage to property to criminal trespass.