Tierra Amarilla, NM (KKOB) – A Rio Arriba County woman accused of running over and killing her romantic rival with a pickup in Española, pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter
36- year old Stephanie Renee Salazar will serve four years in prison as part of a plea agreement.
Salazar did face first-degree murder charges for the 2024 death of 27-year-old Carmela Mercedes Moreno, but a jury was deadlocked in her trial earlier this year. Instead of having a new trial, the DA’s office offered the plea deal.
Salazar received a six-year sentence with two years suspended. After being credited for time served while awaiting trial, she’ll serve four years in prison.
Moreno’s family members expressed their disagreement with the plea and sentence.
