In the pre-dawn hours of December 14, a distressing emergency call was received from a 16-year-old boy, Diego Leyva, who confessed to the killing of his family members. The New Mexico State Police stated that the call led them to a horrifying scene at a home in Balen, a city in Valencia County.
Upon reaching the residence on Camino Escondido, Valencia County sheriff’s deputies encountered Leyva outside the house, his hands raised in surrender, and noticeably intoxicated. He was taken into custody without any resistance, as per the police report.
Inside the house, deputies were met with a gruesome sight. Four individuals were found dead, each apparently from gunshot wounds. The victims were identified as Leonardo Leyva, 42, Adriana Bencomo, 35, Adrian Leyva, 17, and Alexander Leyva, 14. A handgun was discovered on the kitchen table, further corroborating the initial suspicion of a shooting incident.
Diego Leyva is now facing four charges of first-degree murder. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, especially the Rio Communities Fire Department, where Bencomo had volunteered as a firefighter for several years.
The department expressed their sorrow over the tragic loss, stating, “Valencia County, Rio Communities and our brothers and sisters at RCFD are shocked and saddened by this unexpected loss.”
Under New Mexico law, Leyva, being a “serious youthful offender” — a minor who is at least 15 and indicted for first-degree murder — can be tried in children’s court and given an adult sentence. However, he cannot be sentenced to life without the possibility of release or parole.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence within families and communities. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of four of its members, grappling with the shocking reality of the situation.