A shocking case in Albuquerque has grabbed attention across New Mexico. A judge has ruled that a 16-year-old boy, accused of purposely hitting and killing a bicyclist while driving a stolen vehicle, will stay in custody as the case moves forward.
Details of the Incident
On May 29, 2024, around 4:40 AM, a terrible event happened. Scott Habermehl, who worked at Sandia Labs, was riding his bicycle to work when he was struck and killed. According to police, three juveniles — a 16-year-old, a 12-year-old, and an 11-year-old — were inside a stolen car when they deliberately hit Scott. Investigators say the 16-year-old even recorded the incident as it happened.
This horrifying act was not an accident. Police believe the teens planned the attack and quickly left the scene after hitting Scott.
The Charges Against the Teens
The Bernalillo County District Attorney’s Office has filed serious charges against all three juveniles. The 16-year-old, who was 15 when the crime happened, is facing a motion to be charged as an adult. All of the teens are charged with:
- First-Degree Murder
- Conspiracy to Commit First-Degree Murder
- Knowingly Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Great Bodily Harm or Death
- Unlawful Carrying of a Handgun by a Person Under the Age of 19
Earlier this week, a judge also ruled that the now 13-year-old (who was 12 at the time) will remain in custody while his case proceeds.
What About the 11-Year-Old?
The youngest of the three, the 11-year-old, is currently in CYFD (Children, Youth, and Families Department) custody. Even though New Mexico law does not allow a child under 12 to be locked up in a juvenile detention center, the law does allow an 11-year-old to be charged with serious crimes like murder. He is facing the same charges as the older teens.
Looking Ahead
This heartbreaking case shows how serious and violent actions can come from even the youngest members of our society. Scott Habermehl lost his life in a senseless act of violence, leaving his family, friends, and community mourning. As the judicial process moves forward, more decisions will be made about whether the teens will face adult punishments.
The case also highlights the growing concerns about juvenile crime and how the justice system handles such serious offenses when very young offenders are involved. As of now, all three remain under legal custody while awaiting their trials.
