Albuquerque Man Convicted of Murder in 2024 South Valley Shooting

Jury finds Samuel Jimenez Perez guilty of first-degree murder after deadly September 2024 incident.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A jury in Albuquerque, New Mexico has convicted Samuel Jimenez Perez of first-degree murder following a shooting in September 2024 that left one man dead. Perez had previously been involved in another shooting incident in August 2024 where he demanded his motorcycle back and injured two men.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence and repeat offenders in the Albuquerque area. The conviction of Perez for first-degree murder could set an important precedent and send a strong message about the consequences for such violent crimes.

The details

According to authorities, in August 2024 Perez shot at a home near Atrisco and Mares after demanding his motorcycle back, injuring two men. Then in September 2024, deputies returned to the same home after another shooting and found Rosendo Martinez dead. Investigators determined that Perez went to Martinez's home around 5:45 a.m., wearing a bulletproof vest and armed with a semi-automatic handgun. Martinez was shot seven times, and 25 spent bullet casings were recovered at the scene.

  • In August 2024, Perez shot at a home after demanding his motorcycle back, injuring two men.
  • In September 2024, deputies responded to the same home and found Rosendo Martinez dead after being shot seven times.

The players

Samuel Jimenez Perez

An Albuquerque man who was convicted of first-degree murder for a shooting in September 2024 that left one man dead.

Rosendo Martinez

The victim who was shot and killed by Perez in September 2024.

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What they’re saying

“We must send a strong message that gun violence and repeat offenses will not be tolerated in our community.”

— Bernalillo County District Attorney

What’s next

Perez will face a mandatory sentence of life in prison and will be formally sentenced at a later date.

The takeaway

This conviction underscores the need for continued efforts to address gun violence and hold repeat offenders accountable in order to improve public safety in Albuquerque neighborhoods.