"Albuquerque Local Pulse: Traffic troubles, public safety concerns, and community updates"

Good morning, this is Albuquerque Local Pulse for Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

We start with breaking news affecting traffic across the city. A semi-truck crash on southbound Interstate 25 near Coal Avenue yesterday caused significant lane closures and delays throughout the evening commute. Crews have since cleared the scene and all lanes have reopened, but drivers around the I-25 and Coal area should still expect some residual traffic as things return to normal. If you’re heading that way, maybe leave a few minutes early today.

In public safety, Albuquerque police continue to investigate two major incidents. Over the weekend, a woman was stabbed and killed at the Sandia Village apartments on Prospector Way Northwest near McMahon. Homicide detectives are seeking more information. And just yesterday, officers responded to a deadly shooting near the Sunport. APD is asking anyone with tips on these crimes to come forward. These incidents remind us to be mindful of our surroundings, particularly in the War Zone and the area near the airport.

On a lighter note, city services are working to keep us prepared. At 11:02 this morning, the University of New Mexico will conduct a test of its emergency notification systems, including texts, emails, and sirens. If you’re on or near any UNM campus, don’t be alarmed—that’s just a drill to keep us all safe.

Turning to city hall, the Albuquerque City Council held its regular meeting last night at One Civic Plaza. Among the key topics was ongoing debate over city staffing procedures and the checks and balances between mayoral and council powers. While decisions are still pending, these discussions could impact how quickly the city responds to public needs, from paramedics to housing and zoning issues.

Weather-wise, we’re waking up to clear skies and mild temperatures, but the air quality remains a concern due to smoke drifting in from fires near Trout and Buck. If you have respiratory issues, limit your time outdoors today. Highs will reach the low 90s, with the heat building throughout the afternoon and a slight breeze around Rio Grande and Central.

In community news, the Bernalillo County animal shelter is overflowing with animals after a recent cockfighting bust. If you’re ready to adopt or foster, now’s a great time to help a pet in need. Meanwhile, a local nonprofit helping feral cats on the West Side has been recognized for its positive impact.

Looking ahead, construction is beginning on the much-anticipated downtown Rail Trail, which will connect Old Town to the Rail Yards. Watch for detours near First Street and Central as this project brings new walking and biking opportunities to the heart of Albuquerque.

And a bit of good news from the world of innovation—New Mexico Tech students just took first place in an international space mining competition, putting our state’s talent on the map yet again.

Finally, if you’re looking for something fun, SportsCenter will be broadcasting live from Albuquerque this weekend, shining a national spotlight on our city’s vibrant sports scene.

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