Roman Valenciano, 19, died in a road rage shooting on Thursday afternoon, March 26, 2026, and Albuquerque is in mourning. Roman was heading to pick up his mother after finishing his shift at work, according to the police, when another vehicle got angry on the road. Surveillance footage subsequently revealed that the suspect’s automobile abruptly turned around to chase Roman’s vehicle during the altercation, which took place along San Mateo Boulevard NE close to Phoenix Road.
According to investigators, the suspect, 31‑year‑old Cecilio Lopez, repeatedly brake‑checked Roman or accelerated aggressively around him as both vehicles traveled along San Mateo. The situation escalated when Lopez pulled alongside Roman’s gray Nissan Sentra and fired two shots into the vehicle. One bullet shattered a rear window, while the second struck Roman in the face. His car drifted to a stop in the roadway as witnesses called 911.
Officers arrived to find Roman slumped over and unresponsive, bleeding from the head. Despite efforts by emergency responders, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother later told reporters she had been waiting for him to arrive when detectives came to her door with the news no parent should ever hear. She described Roman as a bright light in their family, someone who always carried a big smile even on difficult days.
Roman’s family shared that he had grown even closer to them after his father died of cancer the previous year. He was known for his warmth, humor, and kindness, and he loved cooking, baking, and playing video games. He worked as a manager at Burger King and was proud of the responsibility that came with the role. Loved ones say he was the type of person who made others feel seen and valued, a young man whose presence brought comfort and joy.
Police quickly identified Lopez as the suspect after reviewing surveillance footage and witness accounts. He was arrested and charged with an open count of murder, shooting at or from a vehicle resulting in death, tampering with evidence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Court records show Lopez had previously been charged with murder at age 17, though those charges were later dismissed. He is currently being held as the case proceeds through the courts.
As the investigation continues, Roman’s family and the Albuquerque community are left grieving a life cut short by senseless violence. His mother says she wants people to remember her son for his heart, his smile, and the love he carried for those around him. For many, the stretch of San Mateo Boulevard where he was killed now stands as a painful reminder of a young man whose future was stolen in an instant.