The deceased has been identified as a 34-year-old female resident of Farmington. The circumstances surrounding her death remain under active investigation by the Farmington Police Department.
From Farmington Police:
December 14, 2023
On December 13, 2023, at approximately 10:20 a.m., the San Juan Regional Dispatch Center received a call in which a citizen wanted to report the discovery of a deceased individual at a residence in the Westland Park area.
The deceased has been identified as a 34-year-old female resident of Farmington. The circumstances surrounding her death remain under active investigation by the Farmington Police Department.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and all those affected by this profound loss.
The Farmington Police Department urges anyone with information related to this incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Please contact our dedicated detective line at 505-599-1005. As this is an ongoing investigation, further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
As Vice President of Diversity Affairs at FLC, Heather Shotton has played a pivotal role in advancing a culture of belonging and enhancing student access and success. In addition to her work in diversity affairs, she serves as Acting Dean of Student Engagement, overseeing more than 70 staff members supporting student well-being and success.
The initial call was received at 5:23 AM. The individual was identified from video surveillance. The male was contacted by Durango Police Department Patrol and is now in custody. He has been identified as Joe Brinkerhoff, a resident of the City of Durango. Due to a prior incident, Joe Brinkerhoff was trespassed from the property and his Rec Center privileges were suspended.
After a thorough and ongoing investigation by detectives and working with the district attorney's office, a thorough review of the case was conducted, and the decision to proceed with criminal charges was made. A warrant was issued to charge Heather Fernandez-Hoefer. She was taken into custody without incident on April 1, 2025.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with multiple individuals including juveniles and young adults and located a deceased individual identified as Samuell Tariq Liggins, age 20.
Following an extensive investigation by Farmington Police Department detectives, an arrest warrant was issued for 40-year-old Matthew Sandoval, who is known to have a family connection to Madrid, who has been charged with 1st Degree Murder and Tampering with Evidence. On March 28, Sandoval was located by U.S. Marshals in the 400 block of W. Animas. Farmington Police officers responded and arrested Sandoval on the outstanding warrant.
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