The Albuquerque Police Department headquarters
A tragic hit-and-run incident which killed three Albuquerque New Mexico teenagers became known to the public after camera footage of the act was released. The May occurrence has led to serious criminal charges for two suspects including a 13-year-old and a 15-year-old with an 11-year-old currently under police investigation.
The Incident
Scott Dwight Habermehl was driving toward Sandia National Laboratory when he received a malicious intentional hit by a stolen vehicle according to statements from the Albuquerque Police Department. The complete incident footage captured from inside the car showed teenagers talking about their deeds. A voice suspected to be from the 13-year-old driver states he will strike the cyclist before an impact occurs in the video footage. The 15-year-old passenger in the car urged his cohort to “bump him brah” as he spoke to the 13-year-old driver. The video recording shows the point of contact followed by noises regarded as “metal flexing.”
People on social media platforms saw the video therefore it sparked widespread outrage. The video incident was reported to officials by school personnel when a student brought it to their attention.
Legal Charges and Consequences
The 13-year-old driver and his 15-year-old passenger face charges of open murder alongside conspiracy to commit murder and both counts include unlawful handgun possession. Additionally they received charges for leaving the accident scene before the body was found. Official reports indicate that authorities will place the 13-year-old in Juvenile Detention Center until at least the 15-year-old and 11-year-old are located. The law does not allow prosecutors to charge the 11-year-old with murder because of his age yet they work together with District Attorney’s Office and Children Youth & Families Department (CYFD) to seek alternative penalties.
Community Reactions and Concerns
The disturbing nature of this incident has prompted people to debate about three important issues: youthful offender crimes along with the impact of social media on youth conduct and the availability of stolen automobiles and firearms to young people. Citizens now request enhanced measures for protecting individuals through expanded programs that help troubled youth.
This case demonstrates the risks of unsafe conduct because authorities now carry out investigations and legal procedures for what will remain a lasting example of violent consequences. People of Albuquerque continue to grieve the loss of Scott Dwight Habermehl who was cycling to work before his death and count on justice in this troubling situation.
