La Puebla dad likely killed kids, self

LA PUEBLA, N.M. (KRQE) - Investigators suspect a La Puebla father shot and killed his two young sons sometime between Sunday night and Monday mid-afternoon before turning the gun on himself.

New Mexico State Police identified the father as Melvin Martinez, 44, of La Puebla. The man is believed to have shot and killed his 10- and 12-year-old sons sometime today before killing himself, police said.

The bodies were found by a family member about 2 p.m.

Neighbors were shocked to hear the news of the double murder and suicide.

"He was a good guy," neighbor Leroy Rodriguez said.

"He was in the fire department. He gave to the community. He was very well respected in the community here."

Rodriguez said he worked with Martinez at a local fire department.

Another neighbor, Lisa Griego, was overwhelmed with grief upon hearing about the tragedy.

"I can't even imagine," Griego said.

"Their poor mother. I can't even imagine."

News 13 has learned from friends of the family that Martinez was recently divorced.

Friends tell News 13 that Martinez had made the comment that he'd never let another man raise his children.

State Police have not released a motive in the shootings but investigators continue to interview family members.

Earlier information released by authorities said the boys were 13 and 14.

State Police are the lead agency in the investigation assisted by Santa Fe County deputies. The shooting scene is on County Road 88D in La Puebla southeast of Española.