Federal Bureau of Investigation
4200 Luecking Park Ave NE
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87107
Phone: (505) 889-1300
FAX: (505) 889-1769

Released by/Refer Inquires to:
William A. Elwell
Special Agent – Media Representative
(505) 889-1660

Thomas C. McClenaghan/Special Agent In Charge
Robert Evans/Assistant Special Agent In Charge
Terry Wade/Assistant Special Agent In Charge

Investigation by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Rio Arriba Sheriff’s Office has disclosed that on Saturday, December 1, 2007, at approximately 9:15 a.m., United States Army Corp of Engineers Park Ranger Alfred J. Chavez, age 51, of El Rito, New Mexico was assaulted by two individuals as he was performing his official duties near the Abiquiu Dam area. 

Investigation has determined that as Mr. Chavez was performing his routine duties near one of the dock areas near the lake, he noticed that unauthorized entry had been made into one of secured pump houses at the lake.  Mr. Chavez noticed that the lock and chain which secured the gate had been compromised.  As Mr. Chavez began to investigate the intrusion, he was met by two individuals exiting the pump house.  When Mr. Chavez attempted to make inquiry as to why these two individuals were in the pump house, one of the individuals removed a dark framed revolver from his waistband and fired two shots at Mr. Chavez.  According to Mr. Chavez, he “felt” the first round pass near his head, but the second round struck him just above the right knee.  Mr. Chavez attempted to flee the area but due to his injury he stumbled and was subjected to crawling away from his attackers.  Mr. Chavez was not further pursued or attacked by the suspects.

Mr. Chavez was then able to make cell phone contact with his Senior Park Ranger who then requested the assistance of the Rio Arriba Sheriffs Office and local Emergency Medical personnel.  Upon arriving at the scene, emergency medical personnel tended to Mr. Chavez’s injury and prepared him for transport to the Espanola Hospital in Espanola, New Mexico.  While in transit to Espanola, Mr. Chavez was diverted to the University of New Mexico Hospital (the regions designated Trauma Center) and was airlifted to that facility.  Shortly after his arrival at UNMH, Mr. Chavez underwent surgery for treatment of the gunshot wound.  Mr. Chavez at this time is listed in stable condition.

FBI investigation has determined the following description of Mr. Chavez’s assailants:

Suspect #1 - White or Hispanic male, early to mid 20’s in age, 5’5” to 5’6” inches tall, 130 to 150 pounds, thin build, black hair worn closely cut on sides but long on top, facial stubble, Greenish or black highlighted large size unknown tattoo on neck area (not further described), wearing baggy khaki pants, black shirt, extremely oversized baggy zip front jacket, black framed revolver.

Suspect #2 – White or Hispanic male, late teens to early 20’s, 5’7” to 5’8” inches tall, approximately 200 pounds, heavy build, light brown hair worn short, light colored mustache, colored tattoo worn on left forearm, wore baggy pants and short sleeved shirt.

 The suspects were last seen making their escape from the area in late model (1990’s version) white (possibly Ford) two door pickup with tinted windows and chrome rims.  The vehicle was further described as having body damage on the passenger side tailgate area.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the FBI at (505) 889-1300 (24 hours) or the Rio Arriba Sheriffs Office (505) 753-3329.

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