Albuquerque, NM – A man was shot and killed during an altercation involving a security guard at a Spirit Halloween store. Josiah Armijo, 25, has been charged with second-degree murder in the incident that resulted in the death of Chase Beltramo, 41.
The confrontation occurred on Thursday around 5 p.m. when Beltramo allegedly took items from the store without paying. Armijo attempted to detain him, leading to a physical struggle.
Witnesses reported seeing the two men fight inside and outside the store. Armijo reportedly drew his firearm during the altercation and fired multiple shots, striking Beltramo in the torso and buttocks. Beltramo later succumbed to his injuries.
Shortly after the gunfire, Armijo called for assistance, indicating that shots had been fired. Store surveillance footage captured parts of the incident, which is under investigation.
Prosecutors found probable cause for Armijo’s initial actions relating to theft but determined the use of deadly force was not justified. The underlining cost of the items allegedly taken by Beltramo was reported to be less than $90.
