ALBUQUERQUE, N.M — A New Mexico family is grieving the devastating loss of a husband and father who was killed in what authorities say was a senseless dispute over an oil filter at an Albuquerque auto parts store.
Richard Newman, 47, and his coworker, 18-year-old Jesus Valdez, were shot and killed Sunday evening while working at an O’Reilly Auto Parts on the city’s west side. Deputies with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office say the shooting unfolded after an argument with a customer, identified as 27-year-old Ismael Tena.
According to investigators, Tena and his father came to the store to exchange an oil filter. When they requested two additional containers of oil, claiming the originals were wasted due to an “incorrect filter,” the exchange escalated. Deputies say Tena became upset, grabbed two oil containers, and walked out.
Newman and Valdez followed him outside, where deputies allege Tena pulled out a gun and shot both employees. Newman and Valdez were pronounced dead at the scene.
Tena later told deputies he fired out of fear, claiming both employees were shoving and punching him. However, investigators noted in a criminal complaint that Tena did not appear to have markings consistent with his claims. He has since been arrested and charged with two counts of murder.
A Family’s Grief
For Newman’s family, the tragedy has left an unimaginable void. His wife, June Newman, says she had known Richard since the third grade, and the two were married for 30 years.
“He was the sole provider. He did everything for us,” she said. “I got sick, and he was there. He took me to all my appointments because I can’t drive. He handled my medication.”
Newman’s sons described their father as a man who always put others first.
“He was a hard worker, a provider,” said his son, Michael Newman. “He cared. He did anything for anyone that he possibly could do. That weight will forever weigh heavy on us.”
Though their grief is overwhelming, the family says they are holding on to Richard’s spirit of strength. “We’re all coming together to try to endure this tough moment in our lives, but as a family, we will get through this,” Michael said. “He wouldn’t want us to cry for him.”
Community in Shock
The shooting has left coworkers, customers, and the wider community shaken. Many who knew Newman and Valdez say the tragedy underscores the dangers retail workers often face while simply doing their jobs.
As the investigation continues, the Newman family is left to navigate life without the man they call their rock — a devoted husband, father, and friend remembered for his kindness, reliability, and love.
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