ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — One of six teenagers charged in the killing of a homeless man in Albuquerque has pleaded guilty.
Prosecutors say Isaiah Salazar, who was 15 at the time of the crime, entered a guilty plea to second-degree murder and charges related to a stolen vehicle tied to the case.
According to investigators, Salazar and a group of teens stole a vehicle in Santa Fe and later drove to Albuquerque. Police say the group encountered 45-year-old Frank Howard near Menaul Boulevard and Eubank Boulevard in the early morning hours of July 2, 2025.
Authorities say Howard was sleeping on a bus bench when the group approached him. Investigators say he tried to run away but was shot and killed.
Salazar’s sentencing will depend on whether the court determines he is eligible for treatment under the juvenile system. If he is approved, he could remain in custody until age 21. If not, he could face a prison sentence of more than 20 years.
The case involves multiple defendants, and proceedings are ongoing for the remaining suspects.
