ROSWELL, NM — A confrontation inside a house on the 1500 block of North Montana Avenue on Friday night, January 10, resulted in one man dead and another hospitalized after an exchange of gunfire. Police believe the fatal shooting was an act of self-defense, though the investigation remains ongoing.
The Roswell Police Department (RPD) responded to the scene shortly after 9:30 p.m. Officers arrived to find a 30-year-old man and his 28-year-old female friend outside the residence. The man, who lived at the house, had suffered a single gunshot wound to the midsection and was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The woman was unharmed.
Inside the home, officers discovered 27-year-old Alvin Sedillo unresponsive and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite medics’ attempts to administer aid, Sedillo was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Events Leading Up to the Shooting
According to RPD’s initial investigation, the three individuals were spending the evening drinking together when Sedillo left the home. When he returned, Sedillo reportedly became aggressive, brandishing a firearm. Investigators say he demanded the man and woman surrender their phones and belongings, and insisted they drive him to another location. Sedillo also attempted to take the man’s gun.
When the man refused, Sedillo shot him in the abdomen. In response, the man returned fire, striking Sedillo multiple times. The woman was present during the incident but was not physically injured.
The surviving man called 911 to report the incident. Based on preliminary findings, the Roswell Police Department has not filed charges against him, as the evidence supports a claim of self-defense. Once the investigation is complete, the District Attorney’s Office will review the case and determine whether any charges are warranted.
A Reminder About Situational Awareness and Relationships
This incident underscores the importance of being mindful about the company you keep and remaining situationally aware. Social situations involving alcohol and firearms can escalate quickly, especially when tempers flare or tensions rise. While self-defense was necessary in this situation, it serves as a sobering reminder that violent confrontations can erupt even among acquaintances.
If you carry a firearm for self-defense, it’s vital to stay vigilant, maintain situational awareness, and recognize warning signs of escalating behavior. Avoid engaging in activities or environments that could increase the likelihood of violence, and always prioritize de-escalation when possible.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and ensure you surround yourself with individuals who contribute to a positive and safe environment.
