Las Vegas, NM (KKOB) – The Las Vegas, NM Fire Department says that the fire started at about 2:30 a.m on the 1300 block of Pecos Street. Smoke and flames were visible as fire units arrived. Once firefighters were inside the building, they found two people inside who were evacuated but died on the scene. The third victim died inside the home. The victims are 22-year old Austin Apodaca, 21-year old Geno Gonzales, and 21-year old Desiree Trujillo.
Apodaca and Gonzales were bull riders and regularly competed for TA Rodeo’s summer rodeo events. They both graduated from West Las Vegas High School and Desiree graduated from Robertson High School. There appears to be no foul play involved in the origin of the fire. The investigation will remain active with the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Las Vegas Police Department to determine the exact cause.
The Albuquerque Journal reports that a candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. this Sunday, March 15, at 1303 Pecos St., the gathering is open to the public.
