Stepson shoots Step-Mother during Graduation hug in Albuquerque

A high school graduation ceremony in Albuquerque, New Mexico, a stepson allegedly shot his stepmother as she attempted to embrace him. The incident unfolded on Wednesday at the Albuquerque Convention Center, sending ripples of panic through the gathered attendees.

Identified as Christian Bencomo, 21, the suspect is currently in custody without bail as investigations into the shooting continue. The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) received distressing reports of gunfire around 5 p.m., prompting a swift response to the scene.

According to accounts from authorities, the victim was attending the graduation ceremony of her son at the Southwest Secondary Learning Center. As she moved to hug her stepson, Christian Bencomo, he reportedly produced a handgun and fired a shot, striking her in the neck.

Amidst the chaos that ensued, with over 100 people present at the charter school graduation, the injured woman was rushed to a nearby hospital. Miraculously, she is expected to survive the harrowing ordeal.

Speaking to the media amidst the pandemonium, Gilbert Gallegos, APD Communications Director, described the scene as chaotic. He highlighted the swift action taken by bystanders in apprehending Bencomo until law enforcement arrived.

Subsequent investigations led to Bencomo’s arrest and subsequent charges.

Jail records from the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center indicate a litany of charges against him, including unlawful carrying of a weapon, aggravated assault with intent to commit a felony, aggravated battery with intent to cause great bodily harm to a family member, and preventative detention.