New Mexico Man Found Guilty of Brutal Murder, Decapitation, and Disturbing Act at Las Cruces Park

Las Cruces, N.M. – A gruesome murder case that sent shockwaves through New Mexico has reached its verdict. Joel Arciniega-Saenz has been found guilty of first-degree murder after brutally stabbing 51-year-old James Garcia 84 times, cutting off his finger, decapitating him, and then playing soccer with his severed head, according to Dona Ana District Attorney Fernando Macias.

The crime, which occurred at Apodaca Park in 2021, led to a lengthy legal battle, as Arciniega-Saenz’s mental competency to stand trial was repeatedly challenged.

A Crime That Shocked the Community

Authorities were called to Apodaca Park on the day of the murder after reports of a body found in the roadway. When officers arrived, they discovered a horrifying scene—Garcia’s decapitated body, multiple stab wounds, and his severed middle finger near a pool of blood.

Nearby, police found Arciniega-Saenz sitting with dried blood on his hands and a bloody knife beside him. He was immediately taken into custody.

During police interrogation, Arciniega-Saenz told investigators he was homeless and had been sleeping in the park. He alleged that Garcia had raped his wife four years ago, though he refused to identify his supposed wife.

The Killer’s Chilling Confession

Arciniega-Saenz claimed that he, Garcia, and his unidentified “wife” were together four days before the murder. He alleged that they fell asleep, and when he woke up, Garcia had stolen their belongings.

Fueled by rage, Arciniega-Saenz said he tracked Garcia down to Apodaca Park, confronted him, and took a knife from him before brutally stabbing him 84 times. He then cut off Garcia’s head and, in a shocking revelation, confessed to dragging the body to the street and playing soccer with the severed head.

Justice for James Garcia

Following a lengthy trial process, Arciniega-Saenz was finally convicted on Wednesday. District Attorney Macias acknowledged the challenges in the case but emphasized the commitment to seeking justice.