Las Cruces police have arrested a man suspected of a homicide that occurred late Wednesday evening.
Arturo Francisco Quintana, 31, of 1101 E. Boutz Rd., is charged with a first-degree felony count of murder in the death of 33-year-old Efren Valdez Gutierrez.
About 10:45 p.m. Wednesday, June 10, Las Cruces police were dispatched to the report of a man yelling for help at the Mesilla Manor Apartments, 1101 E. Boutz Rd. Officers arrived to find 33-year-old Efren Valdez Gutierrez deceased inside his apartment. A sword was located nearby.
Witnesses told police that Quintana was seen wielding a large sword outside of the apartment complex shortly before the incident. A witness indicated Quintana appeared upset and was seen swinging the sword in the direction of her and Gutierrez.
Investigators believe, sometime after that, Quintana went into Gutierrez’s apartment and killed him.
Neighbors heard the commotion and called 911. Investigators learned that when Quintana left Gutierrez’s apartment, he indicated to neighbors that he “had to do it.” Neighbors told police Quintana left the apartment complex headed in an unknown direction.
A short while later, a Las Cruces police officer located Quintana. He was taken into custody without further incident. Quintana was booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center where he is initially being held without bond.