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Teen Charged with Murder in Albuquerque Bicyclist Death
A 13-year-old boy has been apprehended and charged with murder following a tragic hit-and-run involving a bicyclist in Albuquerque—a collision that was recorded from within the boy’s stolen vehicle, as announced by law enforcement on Monday.
The minor, who is believed to have been driving, along with a 15-year-old, faces multiple charges including open count of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in significant bodily injury or fatality, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a person underage, according to a statement from the Albuquerque Police Department. Additionally, an 11-year-old who allegedly participated in the incident is deemed too young for prosecution under current laws.
In the Police Department’s statement, it was noted, “APD detectives are collaborating with the DA’s Office and CYFD to decide on possible charges for the younger individual and whether he can be held accountable in any fashion.” The 13-year-old is expected to be detained at the Juvenile Detention Center, while searches are underway for the 15-year-old and the 11-year-old.
The incident surfaced earlier this year when 63-year-old Scott Dwight Habermehl was on his way to work at Sandia National Laboratories. In May, as he was riding in the bike lane, he was struck by a car that veered off course, according to police reports.
The collision, which was recorded from inside the vehicle, subsequently made its way onto social media platforms. In the footage, a voice believed to belong to the 13-year-old is heard warning that the bicyclist is about to be hit, followed by an acceleration of the vehicle’s speed. Another voice, thought to belong to the 15-year-old, suggests a deliberate collision, stating, “Just bump him, brah.” The driver questions, “Like bump him?” while a passenger encourages a speed increase, saying, “Yeah, just bump him. Go like…15…20.”
The aftermath of the incident is punctuated in the recording by the sounds described by law enforcement as “metal flexing,” indicating the impact of the crash.
After the video was shared online, it prompted alerts to the police, with a middle school principal also notifying authorities following a student’s report of the footage.
The Associated Press typically refrains from naming individuals under the age of 18 who are accused of crimes. In remembrance of Habermehl, his obituary reflects on his academic achievements, including earning a PhD in physics in 1994, and a distinguished 30-year career as an engineer at Sandia National Laboratories. He is survived by his wife and two sons.
Habermehl’s obituary highlights his adventurous spirit, recounting his travels to South America where he tackled challenging peaks, and notes his joy in horseback riding around their home in Corrales. Described as a passionate outdoorsman, he held a profound appreciation for the natural world and its wild spaces.
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