Teens charged in fatal shooting, robbery near Old Town

Three 17-year-olds accused of killing man and stealing his rifle, alcohol

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Three teenagers, including a 17-year-old named Johnathan Gurrola, have been arrested and charged in connection with the 2025 fatal shooting and robbery of Luis Ortiz near Albuquerque's Old Town neighborhood. The teens allegedly shot Ortiz multiple times, stole his rifle and alcohol, and fled the scene before returning to take more of Ortiz's belongings.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing issue of youth violence and gun crimes in Albuquerque, which has struggled with high rates of violent crime in recent years. The alleged involvement of minors in a fatal shooting and robbery raises concerns about juvenile justice and public safety.

The details

According to court records, the three teens - Johnathan Gurrola, Brayan Gurrola (Johnathan's cousin), and Heriberto Hernandez - are accused of planning to rob Ortiz after he agreed to sell them alcohol. The teens allegedly approached Ortiz's car, shot at and into it 10 times, causing Ortiz to crash into a nearby house. The teens then fled the scene, but returned minutes later to steal Ortiz's rifle and alcohol from his car, firing one more shot.

  • On May 18, 2025, Brayan Gurrola reached out to Ortiz on Instagram about buying alcohol.
  • The shooting and robbery occurred later that day near Old Town.
  • Johnathan Gurrola was arrested on Thursday, February 20, 2026.
  • Brayan Gurrola was released on personal recognizance on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • Heriberto Hernandez pleaded not guilty on February 6, 2026 and remains in custody after a prosecutor's request for pretrial detention was granted.

The players

Johnathan Gurrola

A 17-year-old charged with an open count of murder, shooting at or from a vehicle, armed robbery, tampering with evidence, and possession of a handgun by a person under 19.

Brayan Gurrola

Johnathan Gurrola's 17-year-old cousin, charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery.

Heriberto Hernandez

A 17-year-old charged with first-degree murder and armed robbery, who pleaded not guilty and remains in custody after a prosecutor's request for pretrial detention was granted.

Luis Ortiz

The 25-year-old man who was fatally shot by the three teens during the robbery.

Gilbert Gallegos

An Albuquerque Police Department spokesperson who provided details about the arrests and charges in a news release.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Johnathan Gurrola out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenge of youth violence and gun crimes in Albuquerque, raising questions about juvenile justice, bail reform, and public safety measures needed to protect communities from such tragedies.