APD Detectives arrest suspect in 2021 murder

APD Detectives Arrest Suspect in 2021 Murder

ALBUQUERQUE -- APD detectives arrested Isaiah Perez today and charged him for the August 2021 murder of Daniel Garcia following a street racing event on Albuquerque’s far West Side.

Detectives arrested Isaiah Perez, 24, after securing an arrest warrant for the Aug. 8, 2021 murder. At the time of the murder, Perez was on probation after being convicted three months earlier for firing a handgun indiscriminately at a house party, striking four people.

Detectives determined that Perez instigated a fight on the night of Aug. 8, 2021, with Garcia after Garcia won a street race against another driver. Between 300 and 400 drivers and spectators were reportedly at the illegal racing event held in the area of 100 Aerospace Parkway, N.W.

Witnesses said Perez challenged Garcia to a race, but Garcia declined. Perez twice started fights with Garcia. Friends of Perez, who were armed, also participated in the fighting. Garcia tried leaving in his vehicle, but the group pursued him, surrounded his car and started beating on the car. As Garcia tried again to drive away, he struck at least two people, including Perez. Witnesses said several gunshots were fired. Garcia got stuck in traffic as he fled, and witnesses said a second volley of gunshots could be heard. Garcia was struck by the gunfire and bystanders attempted to provide aid, but Garcia died at the scene.

Through investigation, detectives determined Perez was responsible for the murder.

He will be booked into the Metro Detention Center on charges of murder, conspiracy to commit a first degree felony and felon in possession of a firearm.

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