A security guard at a popular entertainment store in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has been charged with second-degree murder following a fatal altercation with a suspected shoplifter. The accused, 25-year-old Josiah Armijo, is alleged to have killed 41-year-old Chase Beltramo during an incident that took place at the Spirit Halloween store on Carlisle Boulevard Northeast.
The Albuquerque Police Department reports that the incident occurred around 5 p.m. on a recent Thursday. Armijo, who was on duty as the store’s security guard, reportedly observed Beltramo gathering multiple items and exiting the store without making a payment. This prompted Armijo to confront Beltramo.
According to the police, Armijo tackled Beltramo, pulling him into a steel pole before both men fell to the ground and began to fight. A criminal complaint obtained by law enforcement indicates that Armijo, while on top of Beltramo, began to strike him with what appeared to be his fist.
The complaint further states that Armijo drew his firearm, pointed it at Beltramo’s face, and began to shout at him. Despite Armijo’s threats, Beltramo attempted to get up and escape. At no point during the altercation was Beltramo believed to have been armed.
Armijo then reportedly holstered his firearm, pulled out pepper spray, and sprayed it close to Beltramo’s face. As Beltramo rolled onto his back, Armijo drew his firearm again, threatening to shoot him if he moved.
The fight continued on the ground, with Beltramo managing to get on top of Armijo and appearing to hit him. It was at this point that shots were fired. Beltramo was hit in the upper left area of his torso and the left buttocks. He later succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, Armijo reportedly called for help over his radio. Witnesses and store video footage confirmed the violent confrontation. An investigating officer stated that he did not see Beltramo make any threats or carry a weapon at any time during the video footage. The total value of the items Beltramo was accused of attempting to steal was less than $90.
The Albuquerque Police Department, in collaboration with the District Attorney’s Office, determined that Armijo had probable cause to stop Beltramo for shoplifting. However, he was charged with second-degree murder due to the unnecessary use of deadly force.