Tavor Tom, Murder in Indian Country, New Mexico 2019

A brutal murder has shaken the community of Shiprock, New Mexico. Tavor Tom, 18, of Shiprock, N.M. appeared in federal court today on a criminal complaint charging him with murder in Indian Country.

According to the criminal complaint, Tom allegedly committed this offense on July 1, 2019. He went to the victim's home and stabbed her repeatedly with a knife. The victim died at the scene. Tom stole the victim's automobile and fled the residence. Police later found him after he crashed the vehicle.

The FBI arrested Tom on July 5, 2019. He appeared in court today for a detention hearing where the judge ordered him to remain in custody pending trial. He faces up to life in prison if convicted. A criminal complaint is only an allegation. A Defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The FBI investigated this case with the Navajo Nation Criminal Investigation Section and the McKinley County Sheriff's Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph M. Spindle is prosecuting the case.

Tavor Tom's actions have left a family and friends in mourning. The community is still reeling from the shock of this senseless violence.

The case serves as a reminder of the importance of public safety and the need for justice to be served.

Tavor Tom, 18, of Shiprock, N.M. faces up to life in prison if convicted of murder in Indian Country. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph M. Spindle.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-nm/pr/man-shiprock-charged-murder-woman-indian-country