ALBUQUERQUE, NM — Albuquerque Police Department homicide detectives have arrested 49-year-old Leroy Vallejos for the murder and partial dismemberment of his mother, 69-year-old Ernestina Lucero.
Officers were dispatched to Lucero’s home near Rhode Island and Copper N.E. on Tuesday after Vallejos contacted a home health care company, claiming he hadn’t seen his mother in a week and requesting payment for her care. Concerned, the company requested a welfare check.
Upon arrival, Vallejos allowed officers to search the residence. He stated Lucero had left for Mexico, but her medication was found inside the home. A further search revealed garbage bags in a large freezer containing what appeared to be human remains. The Office of the Medical Investigator later confirmed the remains belonged to Lucero.
Detectives learned that Lucero had previously been reported missing by another family member. A missing persons bulletin was issued on October 23, and Vallejos was already under investigation for suspicious financial activity, including unauthorized withdrawals from Lucero’s debit card and the sale of her vehicle.
During questioning, Vallejos admitted to strangling his mother approximately three weeks prior. He claimed she was part of a group conspiring against him and said he “snapped” before placing her in a chokehold.
Vallejos has been charged with an open count of murder and tampering with evidence. He was booked into the Metro Detention Center overnight.
