An 18-year-old Las Cruces man, identified in court papers as Steven Isaiah Flores, was arrested this month after an alleged March 13 attack in which he reportedly hit a man in the head with the butt of an AR-style rifle. The victim, named in documents as Leo Lozoya, was left with bite marks, bruises, and a deep tear to his forehead and was treated at MountainView Regional Medical Center. Flores faces a felony aggravated battery charge and was booked into the county detention center in mid-April.
What Deputies Say They Found
Deputies with the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office were called to 4801 S Main St. on March 13 after a caller reported a commotion and found blood stains at the scene, according to KVIA. Court documents reviewed by the station describe Lozoya trying to leave after arguing with the mother of his children, and state that Flores and 19-year-old Brian Goodwin blocked him with Celine Ruvalcaba’s vehicle before the confrontation escalated. Witnesses reportedly saw two cars speed away as the caller approached.
Grim Details in Court Papers
The documents say Lozoya had "bite marks on his stomach and forearm, bruises across his body and a deep tear on his forehead," according to KVIA. The papers allege Flores struck Lozoya in the head with the end of an AR-style rifle while others continued to assault him. Lozoya was treated at MountainView Regional Medical Center, which serves Las Cruces and the surrounding area.
Charge, Law and Lockup
Flores was arrested in El Paso on April 17 and booked into the Doña Ana County Detention Center without bond, according to court and jail records. He is charged with aggravated battery. Under New Mexico law (NMSA 30-3-5), aggravated battery becomes a third-degree felony if the attack causes great bodily harm or is committed with a deadly weapon, per Justia. The county's website also outlines detention and booking procedures for people in custody in Doña Ana County.
What Happens Next in Court
Flores remains in custody while prosecutors review the case and prepare filings. Court records indicate he was on probation in El Paso at the time of the alleged assault. If a judge or jury finds the use of a deadly weapon or great bodily harm, the charge could carry felony penalties under state law. Upcoming hearings in Doña Ana County will be the first chance for attorneys to present evidence in open court and for additional details to become public.
