Albuquerque Local Pulse: Shootings, Crimes, and Community Spirit Amidst Spring Weather

Good morning, this is Albuquerque Local Pulse for Thursday, May 22, 2025. The sun is peeking over the Sandias, and we're waking up to mild spring weather, with highs expected in the upper seventies and a few afternoon breezes in store. Perfect conditions for getting outside or catching one of the many events around town today.

We start with breaking news overnight: police responded to a mass shooting late last night on the 1200 block of Cortez Drive Southwest. Three people were wounded and are now receiving care. Authorities are increasing patrols in the area and asking anyone with information to contact APD. Earlier yesterday, a separate incident on Isleta Boulevard near Arenal led to road closures after a daytime shooting in the South Valley. One person was injured and another is in custody. Our thoughts are with the families affected.

In a more bizarre twist, an incident at McDonald's on Central Avenue made headlines, as a habitual felon used a fake gun to demand food. APD responded quickly and no one was seriously hurt, but it highlights continued concerns about public safety in our city. Meanwhile, police are seeking Timothy Riha in connection with aggravated indecent exposure at Coronado Mall. If you frequent the area, stay aware and report suspicious activity.

At City Hall this week, councilors approved a pilot program to provide gas cards for police vehicles in the northwest and southwest commands, aiming to improve response times for emergencies, especially in neighborhoods lacking city fueling stations. The council is also moving forward with funding for a senior stability cottage development in District 6, addressing growing demand for senior housing along the Central corridor. And in a big moment for local arts, discussions continue about a small gross receipts tax to support a new performing arts center downtown, something Albuquerque has waited decades to see.

On the business front, we’re noticing a flurry of activity along Eubank and Montgomery, with a new café opening next week and a beloved bakery announcing its closure after 20 years. Real estate remains steady, with the median home price around 350 thousand dollars, and local job postings inching upward, particularly in healthcare and hospitality.

Shifting to culture and sports, last night was electric as AEW Dynamite packed the Rio Rancho Events Center, with wrestling stars like Jon Moxley, the Young Bucks, and Hangman Page wowing a full crowd. In high school sports, congratulations to the La Cueva Bears softball team on their runner-up finish and shout-out to the Eldorado Eagles baseball team as they gear up for their state championship game against Sandia.

Looking ahead, this weekend brings the Downtown Growers Market and an outdoor music night at Civic Plaza. And here’s a feel-good story to close: neighbors in the Altura Park area rallied yesterday to help a local family facing hardship, organizing a meal train and raising funds for needed repairs, reminding us that community spirit is alive and well in Albuquerque.

This has been Albuquerque Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.