Teens Facing Murder Charges Over Fatal Hit-and-Run

The alleged involvement of two teenagers in a fatal hit-and-run in Albuquerque has raised significant concerns about youth violence.

Quick Takes

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested and charged with murder in the fatal hit-and-run of a bicyclist in Albuquerque.
Part of the incident was reportedly caught on video from within the stolen vehicle.
The 13-year-old and a 15-year-old passenger face multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit murder.
An 11-year-old who was also reportedly involved is too young for murder charges, but was expected to be evaluated.

Shocking Incident

In Albuquerque, a 13-year-old and a 15-year-old face murder charges following a fatal collision with bicyclist Scott Dwight Habermehl last year. Captured from inside a stolen vehicle, a video reportedly recorded the incident, with a voice believed to be the 13-year-old expressing intent to hit the cyclist. Another voice, believed to be that of the 15-year-old, said, “Just bump him, brah.” The video, which circulated on social media, proved crucial after being flagged by a middle school principal to the police.

Scott Dwight Habermehl, a physicist working at Sandia National Laboratory, tragically lost his life during his commute. Known for his passion for outdoor adventures and a dedicated career spanning three decades, Habermehl’s untimely death leaves a significant void in his family and community. This case echoes a similar incident in Las Vegas in 2023, where teenagers also recorded themselves in another hit-and-run plot. Albuquerque’s community grapples with this alarming trend among its youth.

13-Year-Old Charged with Murder in 'Planned' and Filmed Hit-and-Run of Bicyclist That Was Later Posted on Social Media https://t.co/pb58w5rjST

— People (@people) March 19, 2025

Consequences for the Young Suspects

The incident involves three young suspects: a 13-year-old, a 15-year-old, and an 11-year-old, all of whom have been taken into custody. The youngest alleged participant was reportedly arrested and will be evaluated but is too young to be charged with murder. Due to the participants’ ages, the Associated Press refrains from naming the minors charged with crimes. Despite these restraints, the severity of the charges, including conspiracy to commit murder and handgun possession, highlights the grave nature of their alleged actions.

This case brings attention to a disturbing trend of youth violence. “This case is an appalling and heartbreaking reminder of the serious juvenile crime crisis we face in New Mexico––and our lack of tools to properly address it,” New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham pointed out in a statement.

Authorities and parents alike face the challenge of addressing these behaviors exacerbated by pervasive technology and social media influences. As Albuquerque mourns Habermehl, the question remains how communities can better safeguard against such tragedies while holding young offenders accountable.