Kirtland, NM – New Mexico State Police agents arrest a father and son in a fatal shooting.
The investigation began on March 20, 2023, when the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was contacted to investigate a possible homicide that occurred at a residence in Farmington.
Further investigation revealed, Gary Lee Durham (59) of Kirtland, NM disclosed to family members that he had shot and killed someone. Agents learned that the victim was Danny Casalenuovo (59) of Kirtland, NM. Danny was living with Gary Richard Durham (81), the father of Gary Lee. While attempting to evict Danny, an altercation ensued and Gary Lee fired a .22 rifle, striking Danny, and killing him.
Investigations Bureau agents also learned Gary Lee, Gary Richard, and Danny lived together and that Gary Lee and Danny argued often.
Investigations Bureau agents and the New Mexico State Police Crime Scene Team executed a search warrant at 6 Road 6264, Kirtland, NM. During the search of the residence, Crime Scene agents observed what appeared to be traces of blood in various locations in the residence. They also observed a .22 rifle inside the residence. Agents saw fresh paint in areas where they discovered presumptive blood.
During a canvass agents learned that Danny had not been seen for a couple of weeks.
Investigations Bureau agents also learned Danny’s debit card was being used at various locations. Agents collected video surveillance from where Danny’s card was used multiple times. Danny’s vehicle was seen in the footage, driven by a male. A Be On the Lookout (BOLO) was sent to law enforcement agencies for Danny’s vehicle.
New Mexico State Police uniform officers located Danny’s vehicle at a residence on East 18th Street in Farmington.
Investigations Bureau agents interviewed Gary Lee who admitted to shooting Danny with a .22 caliber rifle and burying his body with the assistance of his father Gary Richard.
Gary Lee Durham was taken into custody and arrested on the following charges:
Count One: Murder
Count Two: Tampering with evidence.
Count Three: Felon in Possession of a firearm.
Count Four: Conspiracy to Tampering with evidence.
Gary Richard Durham was arrested on the following charges:
Count One: Tampering with evidence.
Count Two: Conspiracy to Tampering with evidence.
This case is still under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.
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