A 24-year-old man, Adlai Mestre, has been indicted on multiple murder charges following a shocking family tragedy in Tijeras, New Mexico. Mestre is accused of shooting and killing his mother, father, 17-year-old sister, and the family dog in their home on October 13, 2024.
The Incident and Discovery
On July 10, Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman announced that a grand jury had indicted Mestre on three counts of first-degree murder, three counts of tampering with evidence, and one count of animal cruelty. The indictment stems from the horrific shooting that occurred in the Mestre family’s home, a quiet residence in Tijeras.
According to the district attorney’s release, Mestre allegedly dragged the bodies of his family members outside, intending to bury them. He also attempted to clean the crime scene.
The crime was discovered after police received a call reporting gunshots coming from the home, and a concerned man attempted to reach the family without success.
Mestre’s Alleged Confession
When deputies arrived at the scene, they found Mestre outside the house, holding a gun and a loaded magazine. During questioning, Mestre reportedly told the officers, “My family’s trying to walk in my room, trying to hit my heart, and my dad had a knife, and my sister had a sledgehammer and I killed them.”
However, Mestre also claimed that he later “found their bodies and their wounds were healed.”
As deputies entered the house, they discovered disturbing evidence, including a knife near the front door, bloodstains, and a hammer and meat tenderizer covered in blood. The bodies of Mestre’s parents and sister were later found in a ravine near the home.
Mestre allegedly confessed to the officers, saying, “I killed them and was going to bury them.” Investigators also found signs that Mestre had attempted to clean the scene, with blood transfer patterns that appeared consistent with dragging and mopping.
Mestre’s Attempt to Escape
After being detained, Mestre reportedly tried to escape from the room where he was being held, even kicking a hole in the wall. However, his escape attempt was unsuccessful, and he was soon back in custody.
Legal Status and Competency
Mestre’s indictment comes after a lengthy evaluation of his mental state. In April, he was deemed incompetent to stand trial by a judge. However, by June, Mestre was ruled competent and fit for trial. The case is now moving forward, and the details of his trial will unfold in the coming months.
The indictment of Adlai Mestre marks a tragic and chilling turn of events for the Mestre family. As authorities continue to investigate, the community remains in shock over the violence that unfolded in what was once considered a peaceful home.
The legal process will continue as the courts prepare for trial, with Mestre facing serious charges in connection with the deaths of his parents, sister, and the family dog.
