Fast Food Crime Stories: New Mexico’s Disturbing 2024 Trends and Cases
According to Kisselpaso, New Mexico has witnessed its share of terrible crimes, but it’s surprising when these incidents unfold at fast-food restaurants—places you’d think would be the last spot anyone would choose to cause trouble. Yet, the state has seen several shocking incidents at fast food joints, with some occurring as recently as 2024.
The Sonic Shooting in New Mexico
On July 25, 2024, a tragic event took place at a Sonic Drive-In when a 20-year-old employee was shot in the head, leaving him in critical condition. The suspect, 31-year-old Mariano Romero, was arrested for allegedly shooting the young worker and threatening a witness who came forward.
A Roswell Man’s Milkshake Meltdown at Arby’s
In June 2024, Tommy Smith made headlines for all the wrong reasons when he threatened to assault employees at an Arby’s in Roswell over a milkshake. Smith, who refused to pay for the milkshake, became hostile, prompting the staff to call the police. He was subsequently arrested and charged with attempted robbery, disorderly conduct, and creating a public nuisance.
A Former New Mexico Police Officer Robs a Subway
Roswell was in the news again, but this time for a crime that took place back in 2016. Former police officer Valerie Palombi, 24 at the time, was arrested along with an accomplice for robbing a Subway restaurant. After years of legal proceedings, Palombi was convicted and sentenced in 2019.
Albuquerque Man’s Crime Spree at Fast-Food Joints
Albuquerque saw its fair share of fast-food crime as well, thanks to 37-year-old Frank Madrid. Madrid embarked on a robbery spree, targeting a Dunkin’ Donuts, a Taco Bell, and even a Conoco gas station before being apprehended by law enforcement.
Violent Incidents at New Mexico McDonald’s
Unfortunately, McDonald’s locations in New Mexico have been the sites of several violent crimes. In June 2024, Tim Roberts was brutally beaten by an unidentified assailant at a McDonald’s. In another incident in 2019, Anthony Hernandez shattered the glass at a McDonald’s, causing chaos. And in December 2023, Ruben Martinez was arrested after he assaulted two McDonald’s employees, punching them in the face during the holiday season.
A Murder at a Gallup McDonald’s
The violence doesn’t stop there. Gallup, New Mexico, was the scene of a tragic murder at a McDonald’s, underscoring the shocking reality that these incidents can happen anywhere.
New Mexico Isn’t Alone
It’s worth noting that New Mexico isn’t the only state where fast-food crimes occur. Texas has also seen its share of troubling incidents at McDonald’s locations and other fast-food restaurants, proving that these types of crimes aren’t confined to any one region.