Zuni Man Stabbed Victim in Albuquerque Street Attack

ALBUQUERQUE – A brutal unprovoked stabbing in Zuni, New Mexico, has led to federal charges against the alleged perpetrator. According to court documents, Adrian Cheama, a 36-year-old enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, is accused of stabbing another man in the abdomen as he walked along a residential street on June 16, 2025. The weapon used was described as either a circular metal pole or a knife, and Cheama reportedly fled the scene laughing after inflicting serious injuries upon his victim.

Multiple witnesses confirmed Cheama’s presence at the scene, noting he carried a backpack and a baton-like object before and during the attack. The investigation revealed prior statements by Cheama indicating he was seeking out the victim specifically. Now, Cheama faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted of assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault with a dangerous weapon.

The U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip Russell of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office announced the charges today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office conducted the investigation, assisted by the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jordan is handling the prosecution.

It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Cheama remains in custody pending trial, with no schedule announced yet.

RELATED: Vernon Poleahla Sentenced