Cubero Man Charged in Fatal Shooting

ALBUQUERQUE – A Cubero man is facing federal charges in connection with the fatal shooting of another tribal member during a confrontation at a cemetery.

According to court records, on January 1, 2026, Donald Thompson, 49, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Laguna, allegedly shot and killed another Laguna Pueblo member during a confrontation at a cemetery within the Pueblo of Laguna in Cubero, New Mexico. Law enforcement responded to reports of a shooting and found the victim deceased at the scene with an apparent gunshot wound to the chest and back. Witnesses reported that Thompson was armed with a rifle and fired a single shot during the confrontation, and Thompson later admitted to shooting the victim, claiming he believed he was acting in self-defense.

Thompson is charged with second degree murder and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He was released on conditions pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Thompson faces up to life in prison.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.