By News Editor And Partners
• Dec 15, 2020 The man suspected of striking his stepfather over the head with a hammer more than three weeks ago is now charged with murder following the victim’s death.
Alejandro Nevarez, 28, of the 1100 block of Lees Drive, was initially charged with attempted murder. Investigators have upgraded the charge to murder. Nevarez also faces one count of tampering with evidence.
About 5:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, Las Cruces police were dispatched to the report of a man who was critically injured by his stepson at a home on the 1100 block of Lees Drive. Officers arrived to find 56-year-old John Padilla with severe injuries to his head. Padilla was transported to University Medical Center of El Paso.