Chama Valley & Abiquiú Daily Digest Friday, July 17, 2026
Ty's Take
There's a weight to the news coming down the valley this week that sits heavier than usual. A baby dead, officers who knew something and didn't report it. A woman missing. A shooting in Vallecitos on a Friday night. A restraining order slapped on somebody for criticizing the people who are supposed to serve them. These aren't the kind of stories that fit easy into conversation at Bode's—they're the kind that make you pour another cup of coffee and stare out the window at Pedernal for a while. The Chama Valley and Abiquiú country have always been resilient, built on deep roots and the kind of neighborliness that gets you through hard winters. But resilience doesn't mean looking away when something's broken in how we treat each other, or in the systems we've built to protect the most vulnerable. Sometimes the work starts with seeing what's actually happened, and naming it straight.
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Rio Grande SUN
Echo, a 2-year-old, 53-pound dog featured in this week's pet spotlight, has won hearts around town with his irresistible charm and expressive face. His crooked teeth and smooshable features have made him a local favorite among anyone lucky enough to meet him.
Ruidoso Downs race track to close to address damaged culvert
Ruidoso Downs Race Track and Casino will temporarily shut down following a state Department of Transportation recommendation to repair a damaged culvert at the facility's entrance. The closure will allow crews to complete the necessary infrastructure work.
2026 Española Fiesta Pet Parade Winners
The 2026 Española Fiesta Pet Parade celebrated creativity and community spirit with winners announced across multiple categories. Highlights included a clever cat-filled fish tank float and costumed dogs dressed as beekeepers and back-to-school characters.
2 Arrested, Woman Still Missing
State Police have arrested two men in connection with the July 8 kidnapping of a local woman and the shooting of her boyfriend, though the victim remains missing. Danny Trujillo, 40, and Marcos Romero, 46, face charges as authorities continue searching for Jeanette Salazar.
Meet the staff of the Roswell Tribune ushering in a new era in southern New Mexico journalism
The Roswell Tribune has assembled a new editorial team to lead local journalism into a fresh chapter for southern New Mexico. Prospective writers interested in contributing can reach out to Managing Editor Adrian Hedden at achedden@elritomedia.com.
1 Dead After Shooting Friday Night in Vallecitos
A man died from a gunshot wound during a domestic violence incident in Vallecitos on July 10, with no charges expected following the incident. Rio Arriba County Sheriff's deputies are treating the death as likely self-defense.
The Española Fiesta has selected its Grand Marshal for the upcoming celebration, honoring a community member for their contributions to local culture and tradition. Details about the selected Grand Marshal are available to subscribers.
District Vacancies Remain Unfilled
Rio Arriba County's five public school districts are still working to fill multiple staff vacancies with the 2026-27 school year just weeks away. Despite recruiting efforts over the summer, many teaching and support positions remain open across the region.
Officers Didn’t Report Alleged Drug Use to CYFD Before Baby’s Death
A woman faces serious charges including child abuse resulting in death and drug possession following the death of her 15-month-old daughter, with a pretrial hearing scheduled for August 3. Reports indicate officers failed to alert child protective services about alleged drug use before the fatal...
Criticizing Public Officials Results in Restraining Order
A community member has been issued a restraining order for publicly criticizing local officials, raising questions about accountability and free speech in the area. The case highlights tension between the right to question government and potential legal consequences for vocal citizens.
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