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ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KOAT) — Albuquerque police are letting the public know they can sleep easier. A violent criminal is off the streets. James Alex Chavez, 32, was arrested in connection with a deadly gas station shooting. Arrest documents say the shooting was fueled by a stolen water bottle and a bag of chips.
“He was only 24 years old. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time. He did not deserve to die,” said the victim’s sister.
According to a criminal complaint, 27-year-old Jesus Lopez and 24-year-old James Ronquillo were visiting Lopez’s brother at the Circle K on Menaul and University on Jan. 14.
Documents say Chavez did not pay for a water bottle and bag of chips. Ronquillo and Lopez followed Lopez’s brother as he escorted Chavez off the property. Detectives said that is when Chavez pulled out a gun and started shooting.
“Him and James were inseparable, and they were best friends. They did everything for each other, they were always together,” said Lopez’s girlfriend.
Detectives used surveillance footage, DNA and fingerprints found on the water bottle and bag of chips to identify Chavez. He was arrested and booked at the Metropolitan Detention Center early Saturday morning.
“I want them to pay for what they did. I want them to know how bad they hurt everybody that loved him, that love both James and Jesus. I want them to pay, I want justice,” said Lopez’s girlfriend.
Chavez is expected in court on Monday.
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