APD arrests suspect in Saturday stabbing death

June 12, 2022

ALBUQUERQUE -- APD detectives arrested and charged Valerie Hernandez for the stabbing death on Saturday of a man who lived with her brother.

Officers responded at 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2022, to reports of a stabbing at 604 Madison St. N.E., just north of Lomas Blvd.

Hernandez, 42, admitted to striking the man with a broken shovel handle and stabbing him with a screwdriver. The victim was able to call 911 and say he was attacked by Hernandez while he was sleeping. He was transported to a hospital and later died from his wounds. The victim’s next of kin has not yet been formally notified of his death.

Hernandez also called 911 and later gave conflicting details to detectives about the incident. Detectives determined that evidence was consistent with the victim’s statement that he was attacked in his bedroom.

Hernandez told detectives she was diagnosed as having a mental illness. Her brother also told detectives she acted delusional in the past and had been abusing drugs. He was allowing her to stay on his property but refused to allow her to stay in the residence because of her erratic behavior and past conflicts.

Hernandez was booked overnight into the Metro Detention Center on an open count of murder.

APD has advocates for victims of violent crimes, including domestic violence and sex crimes. Victims, including family of homicide victims, can call 505-924-6028 to reach one of the advocates. Victim advocates can also be reached by email: [email protected].

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