Teen Homicide Investigation Leads to Arrests of Three in ABQ

Albuquerque –

On May 19, 2024, deputies from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call at Pajarito Mesa, where they discovered the body of 16-year-old Jesus Quintana Cota, who had died from a gunshot wound.

Leading the investigation, the BCSO Homicide Unit identified multiple individuals linked to the incident. Working in conjunction with the Bernalillo County 2nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, and supported by BCSO/USMS Task Force Officers and detectives from the Violent Crimes Unit, authorities apprehended three suspects on June 27, 2024. These individuals face numerous felony charges related to the homicide.

Arrest Details:

• Daniel Medrano Garcia (DOB: 06/24/2006), who was 18 years old at the time of arrest, though a juvenile at the time of the crime.
• Mariana Gomez (DOB: 09/22/2005), aged 18, booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC).
• Dominik Marquez (DOB: 08/21/2006), aged 17, booked into the Youth Services Center (YSC).

Charges against the suspects include 1st-degree murder, kidnapping, robbery, conspiracy, and tampering with evidence.

These arrests underscore ongoing efforts to address dangerous activities among groups of young people in Albuquerque, including reckless driving and street racing often documented on social media. The suspects involved in this homicide were known for filming their illegal activities, showing a blatant disregard for law enforcement and public safety, which tragically escalated into fatal violence.

Sheriff John Allen continues to express serious concern over the trend of rising violent crimes among juveniles in Albuquerque: “It’s alarming how emboldened some young individuals have become, committing serious offenses without fear of consequence. This case not only brings those responsible for a tragic loss of life to justice but also underscores the challenges we face with juvenile crime in our community.”

The arrest forms part of a broader initiative by the Sheriff’s Office, funded through Gun Violence Reduction funding from the State of New Mexico. These operations have targeted street racing, auto theft, and gun violence, resulting in significant arrests and a reduction in crime rates. Sheriff Allen praised his team’s dedication in solving this complex case, particularly overcoming initial challenges with a young victim found in a remote area. He emphasized, “This case is also integral to our efforts to dismantle street racing networks that pose a threat to public safety. Our team’s commitment has removed dangerous individuals from our streets, demonstrating our resolve to protect the community.”

If you ever witness a crime and want to report something anonymously, you can file an anonymous tip with Albuquerque Metro Crime Stoppers at (505) 843-STOP or p3tips.com/531.