Ervin Joaquin Gutierrez, a 22-year-old resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico, was arrested following the shooting death of his 25-year-old cousin, Nathaniel Cavazos, inside an apartment. According to local NBC-affiliated broadcast reports, the fatal incident occurred on August 27 during a family gathering where relatives had been drinking and cooking traditional Mexican enchiladas.
Dispute Over Culinary Skills Escalates to Fatal Shooting
According to witness testimony provided by another cousin at the scene, the argument began over a dispute regarding who possessed superior cooking skills, specifically concerning the preparation of spicy enchiladas. Both men reportedly claimed they made the best version of the dish. The verbal argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation between the two family members. During the confrontation, Gutierrez retrieved a handgun and made a final remark to Cavazos before opening fire. Cavazos was struck in the back three to four times from a distance of approximately three meters while attempting to walk away from the argument.
Suspect Flight and Snapchat Communications
Local police arrived at the apartment complex before 11 p.m. on August 27, shortly after Gutierrez had fled the scene. During his escape, Gutierrez contacted other family members via Snapchat messaging.
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