Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Bicyclist’s Life; Teen Suspects Charged with Murder
Albuquerque, New Mexico – A community is reeling in shock and grief after a fatal hit-and-run incident claimed the life of a 63-year-old physicist, Scott Dwight Habermehl, as he biked to work. The Albuquerque Police Department has made significant progress in the investigation, leading to the arrest and charging of several teenagers in connection with the crime. The case has garnered widespread attention due to the disturbing nature of the incident, which was allegedly recorded on video by the suspects themselves and circulated on social media.
According to police reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of May 29, 2024, at approximately 4:40 a.m. Habermehl was riding his bicycle on Moon Street, en route to his job at Sandia National Laboratories, when he was struck by a vehicle that veered off the road and into the dedicated bike lane. The impact resulted in fatal injuries to Habermehl, leaving the community mourning the loss of a respected scientist and valued member.
The ensuing investigation led authorities to identify three teenage suspects: a 13-year-old boy, a 15-year-old boy, and an 11-year-old boy. The 13-year-old has been charged with an open count of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, leaving the scene of an accident involving great bodily harm or death, and unlawful possession of a handgun by a person. Authorities believe the 13-year-old was the driver of the car that struck and killed Habermehl. The 15-year-old faces the same charges as the 13-year-old. The 11-year-old is currently in custody but, because of his age, cannot be charged with murder.
The Albuquerque Police Department revealed that the teenagers allegedly videotaped the crash from inside the stolen vehicle. The video, which has since circulated on social media, purportedly shows the car swerving from the southbound lane onto the bike lane, striking Habermehl. According to the police statement, the teenagers saw the flashing light on the bicycle and audio of the recording indicated they planned to hit the bicyclist. Detectives received a tip about the video being posted to social media. A middle school principal also reported to Albuquerque Public Schools police that a student reported the same video of the crash.
In the recording, a voice believed to be the 13-year-old driver is heard saying that he was about to hit the bicyclist before accelerating the car, authorities said. He is then heard saying, Just bump him, brash, police said. TEEN BRAGS HELL GET ‘SLAP ON THE WRIST’ FOR KILLING EX-POLICE CHIEF IN HIT-AND-RUN Like bump him? the driver asks. Yeah, just bump him. Go like…15…20, another passenger said. There were loud sounds, including metal flexing, as the momentum of the crash carried Habermehl and his bicycle on top, and off, the passenger side of the vehicle, police said.
The 11-year-old, who was allegedly waving a handgun at the time of the crime, will be put in the custody of the state’s Children, Youth & Families Department and evaluated. Authorities had arrested the 11-year-old on an unrelated felony warrant. Detectives are working with prosecutors and state social workers to determine what charges he may face and whether he can be held on those charges.
The incident has sparked outrage and condemnation from community members and law enforcement officials alike. The Albuquerque Police Department has expressed its commitment to conducting a thorough and comprehensive investigation, ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The case has also raised concerns about juvenile crime, parental responsibility, and the potential influence of social media on young people.
The case has drawn comparisons to a similar hit-and-run incident in Las Vegas that resulted in the death of a retired police chief who was also bicycling. The similarities between the two cases, including the age of the suspects and the alleged recording of the crime, have raised concerns about a potential trend of reckless and violent behavior among young people.
As the investigation continues, the Albuquerque community is grappling with the tragic loss of Scott Dwight Habermehl and the disturbing circumstances surrounding his death. The case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of reckless behavior and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their age. The legal proceedings against the teenage suspects are expected to be complex and lengthy, as authorities navigate the challenges of prosecuting juveniles in serious criminal cases. The outcome of the case will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the community and will likely fuel further discussions about juvenile justice reform and violence prevention strategies.
