Zebadiah Romero, 35, Charged with Murder on Taos Pueblo

A chilling crime has shaken the Taos Pueblo community, leaving one family in mourning. Zebadiah Romero, a 35-year-old non-Indian, has been charged with first-degree murder and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

According to court documents, on October 30, 2023, Romero allegedly shot and killed Josephine Archuleta, an enrolled member of the Taos Pueblo, in her residence on the Taos Pueblo.

Romero is facing a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted of the charges. The case is being investigated by the Santa Fe Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, with assistance from the Taos Pueblo Department of Safety and the Albuquerque Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jesse Pecoraro and Mark Probasco are prosecuting the case, which is a stark reminder of the devastating impact of violence on our communities. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The Taos Pueblo community is still reeling from the tragedy, and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the victim. As this case unfolds, we will continue to provide updates and coverage.

Romero is currently being held pending a detention hearing, scheduled for April 25, 2024. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing public safety and holding those responsible for violent crimes accountable.

Defendant: Zebadiah Romero, 35

Criminal Charges: First-degree murder and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence

City and State: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Exact Date: October 30, 2023

Sentence or Outcome: Life in prison if convicted

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