Suspect Christopher Apodaca Arrested for Attempted Murder, Victim Stable

The Alamogordo Police Department  confirmed via a social media post and press release that Christopher Apodaca, 32, of Alamogordo, was arrested following a violent stabbing incident on November 28, 2025. Police responded to a 911 call on Fifth Street where they found a 52-year-old woman suffering multiple sharp force trauma wounds. Apodaca, who himself called 911, admitted to striking the victim with a meat cleaver. He was taken into custody without incident and charged with Attempted 2nd Degree Murder or, alternatively, Aggravated Battery Upon a Household Member (Great Bodily Harm). The victim was transported to El Paso for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition.

Recent Murders and Stabbings in Alamogordo

The arrest comes on the heels of several high-profile stabbing deaths in Alamogordo over the last 24 months:

November 17, 2025 – Murder of Lucinda Rios

Deputies discovered Lucinda Rios, 29, dead in her mobile home after a welfare check. She had suffered multiple stab wounds. Her boyfriend, Matthew Weems, 31, was arrested within hours and charged with murder. Investigators recovered a black folding knife believed to be the weapon. Weems remains held without bond.

August 2024 – Fatal Stabbing of Lyman D. Hughes

Hughes, a prominent local figure, was fatally stabbed in Alamogordo. The case drew significant community concern and remains part of a troubling string of knife-related homicides.

June 2024 – Murder of Severe Scott Bowman

Bowman, 65, was found stabbed to death in his home. The case underscored the vulnerability of elderly residents and heightened calls for stronger community safety measures.

A Pattern of Violence

These incidents mark at least three major homicides and one attempted murder involving knives in Alamogordo since mid-2024. Law enforcement agencies have responded with multiagency collaboration, including the Otero County Sheriff’s Office, Alamogordo Police Department, and regional partners. Officials have also deployed Flock Safety camera systems to deter crime and aid investigations. 

Crime data shows Alamogordo’s violent crime rate has remained above the national average, with spikes in assaults and homicides in recent years City-Data.com. Community members and officials alike are voicing concern about the persistence of knife-related violence and its impact on public trust.

Community Response

Local leaders emphasize that citizen participation in safety initiatives—such as neighborhood watch programs and integration with Flock camera system are an action step citizens can take to help track and curb violence. As Alamogordo grapples with another attempted murder, residents are reminded of the importance of vigilance, collaboration, and continued investment in public safety infrastructure.

More News from Alamogordo

• Emerald Market Burglary Nets $75,000 in Stolen Goods, Police Seek Help Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Austin Edwards at 575-439-4300 Ext. 5124
• Federal Immigration Prosecutions in New Mexico Show Shifting Trends The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico has released its latest weekly immigration and border crimes report