Ranchos De Taos, N.M. — A New Mexico man is under arrest after allegedly shooting his girlfriend’s ex-husband, Antonio Gomez, 45, while the victim was helping his ex-wife with her car. The shooting occurred on Wednesday, July 16, and has led to serious charges against the alleged shooter, Eduardo Castaneda, 35.
According to the New Mexico State Police, Gomez was fatally shot at the residence, while Gomez’s ex-wife was also shot but survived the attack. Castaneda fled the crime scene immediately after the shooting, but police apprehended him hours later in connection with the incident.
The Incident
Police said Gomez’s ex-wife, who has not been named, had picked up her ex-husband that day to help with mechanical issues on her vehicle. Castaneda, who was at work at the time, had tried to contact the woman, but when he did not hear back, he reportedly went to the residence. An argument soon escalated between Castaneda and Gomez. Authorities allege that Castaneda then brandished a firearm and shot both Gomez and his ex-wife, who was injured in the arm.
Gomez’s children were present at the time of the shooting, and police are treating this as a serious case of domestic violence involving the children, with additional charges of child abuse filed against Castaneda.
Castaneda’s Arrest and Charges
Castaneda was arrested and faces several charges, including first-degree murder, aggravated battery, and three counts of child abuse due to the children’s presence during the attack. Castaneda reportedly told police that Gomez attacked him, and he shot him in self-defense, according to an arrest warrant cited by the Albuquerque Journal.
At the time of writing, Castaneda’s plea and attorney information have not been publicly released.
A Community in Mourning
Antonio Gomez is being remembered as a devoted father, with his brother Frank Gomez expressing heartfelt grief in a GoFundMe page set up to help with funeral costs. Frank wrote, “Anyone that knew him knew he lived for his kids. We are heartbroken, and he will be truly missed. This tragedy is one we will never quite understand.”
Call for Help: Domestic Violence Support
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, the National Domestic Violence Hotline is available at 1-800-799-7233 for confidential support and resources.