Two people were taken into custody in West El Paso on Tuesday after investigators tied them to a deadly road rage shooting in southwest Albuquerque that killed a 21-year-old man. Authorities identified the victim as Roberto Carlos Pineda Arriaza, who was hit when shots were fired from two vehicles during a weekend confrontation. With help from federal and local partners, law enforcement tracked the suspects to an El Paso residence, and New Mexico officials are now working to bring them back to face charges. Detectives say they are still looking for a vehicle connected to the case.
Arrests Made in El Paso
According to Bernalillo County deputies, Rory Horowitz and Ellyssa Salazar were arrested at a home in West El Paso after investigators located them with assistance from the U.S. Marshals and the El Paso Police Department. As reported by KFOX14, Horowitz was initially wanted on charges related to shooting from a vehicle, and investigators are pursuing an amended warrant that would add an open count of murder. Salazar was booked on charges of tampering with evidence and harboring a fugitive.
Investigators' Account Of The Shooting
Authorities say the gunfire erupted Saturday in southwest Albuquerque when two unrelated vehicles - described by witnesses as a BMW and a Mitsubishi - began shooting, and bystanders were caught in the crossfire. KOB 4 reports that Pineda Arriaza was killed in his own front yard while showing a new motorcycle to a friend. Deputies say physical evidence and witness statements pointed to Horowitz as being involved in the attack. They also noted that the Mitsubishi registered to Salazar is still missing.
Charges And Legal Next Steps
Horowitz is facing several felony counts, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting at or from a motor vehicle, and detectives say more charges could be added as the investigation develops. KOAT reports that Albuquerque police separately arrested a person tied to the second vehicle on charges that include aggravated fleeing from a law enforcement officer and reckless driving, though investigators say they do not currently have evidence that this individual fired any shots. Extradition proceedings are underway to return Horowitz and Salazar to New Mexico while authorities continue collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.
What Officials Are Asking For
Investigators are urging anyone who has information about the Mitsubishi or the shooting itself to contact the Bernalillo County Sheriff's Office or submit an anonymous tip through Tip411. KOB 4 reports the case remains active and that deputies are following additional leads.
