Heat wave, crime, housing, jobs, and community spirit in Albuquerque

14/06/2025 3 min
Heat wave, crime, housing, jobs, and community spirit in Albuquerque

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Episode Synopsis

Good morning, this is Albuquerque Local Pulse for Saturday, June 14, 2025.We’re waking up to the first big heat wave of the season. Triple-digit temperatures are expected to stick around today and into early next week, so let’s be smart—limit outdoor activities in the heat of the day, hydrate often, and keep an eye on pets and neighbors. There’s a slight chance for afternoon storms but for most of us, it’s about staying cool and sun safe.Breaking news overnight, Albuquerque police continue investigating a pair of major incidents. On Tramway just south of I-40, a road rage shooting led to a crash and several arrests yesterday morning. No bystanders were injured, but police are urging everyone to stay patient on the roads as summer traffic picks up. In another case, a stolen vehicle suspect was apprehended after APD’s air support guided officers to the War Zone area, ending a high-speed chase without injury. Public safety remains at the forefront after a tragic event at Moe’s Smoke Shop on Central Avenue where the store owner was arrested for murder following a suspected theft. We’re reminded how quickly confrontations can escalate. In a related update, police identified Jorge Dominguez, a felon with a long criminal history, as the suspect killed during a SWAT operation earlier this week. These cases are still open, and police are asking the community to share any information that might help their investigations.On a different note, city officials recently shut down Barcelona Suites after inspectors found unsafe conditions in nearly every room. This move is part of a broader crackdown on substandard living and aims to protect tenants while addressing the city’s housing challenges. In real estate, the market continues its spring momentum. Median home prices for Albuquerque hold steady just under three hundred sixty thousand dollars, and inventory has ticked up slightly, making it a bit easier for buyers to find options in neighborhoods like Nob Hill and Taylor Ranch.Turning to City Hall, our next council meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 16, at 5 p.m. in the Vincent E. Griego Chambers downtown. Residents are encouraged to speak up on upcoming budget proposals and new public safety initiatives, with public comment sign-up available online.The job market is active, with another round of hiring at major employers like the National Guard and a few new tech start-ups opening positions across the metro area. Grocery store workers are voting on a potential strike, which could impact stores citywide, so we’ll keep our ears to the ground on that front.Looking ahead, there’s a planned protest this afternoon at Mariposa Park. APD is asking participants to leave firearms at home to help keep the event peaceful. If you’re heading out, expect extra police presence and traffic delays along Unser and Ladera.For some lighter news, the annual San Juan River Balloon Rally is underway up in Bloomfield and draws plenty from Albuquerque for a weekend escape. Meanwhile, Effex Nightclub is hosting the traveling “In Bed by 10” event tonight, adding to a lively music scene downtown.Rounding out the roundup, we want to congratulate the La Cueva High School softball team, who clinched a state title last night—way to make the city proud! And in one of our favorite feel-good stories, a YMCA employee was recognized after going above and beyond for kids in our community, proving that kindness is alive and well here in Albuquerque.This has been Albuquerque Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI

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