Alex Ross

The resolution, which advanced out of the council’s Legal Committee on a 4-0 vote Aug. 31, would authorize the city manager’s office to “wind down” operations of the zoo and the former Peppermint Park, and make arrangements for animals to be sent to other locations. This would be accomplished by the end of fiscal year 2027, which is June 30, 2027, according to the resolution.

Devon Joel Schinagel, 41, of Elephant Butte was arrested and charged with one count each of homicide by vehicle, aggravated driving while under the influence, concealing identity, reckless driving and failing to give immediate notice of accidents.

Manuel Gallegos, 43, was identified as a person of interest in the double homicide that left Stacia Marie Pearce, 38, and Tony Joseph Ontiveros, 39, according to a news release issued Wednesday, Sept. 9 by the Roswell Police Department. Police want to speak with Gallegos as part of their investigation into the double homicide. No further information about Gallegos was issued.

Conyers was one of 14 volunteers who turned out in the plaza in downtown Roswell on the afternoon of Friday, Sept. 4, to plant over 300 flags in the ground as part of a field of honor in observance of both Labor Day and the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks on Friday, Sept. 11.

Stacia Marie Pearce, 38, and Tony Joseph Ontiveros, 39, were found suffering gunshots wounds by police officers at about 3 a.m. at a residence in the1600 block of Juniper Street, according to a news release from the Roswell Police Department.

Roswell man Sean Michael Caraska, 37, was arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder in the July shootings of homeless men Andrew Lujan-Huerta and Karl Affsprung. Police found a white pickup and firearm linked to both cases during a search. The investigation continues, including possible connections to other crimes; no motive has been established.

Roswell City Council will consider a proposal to close Spring River Zoo by June 30, 2027, and replace it with a $17.5 million multi-generational center. The project would include a new Adult Center, recreation amenities and flood repairs, with FEMA covering $13.125 million. Animals would be relocated, while Peppermint Park remains open until construction.

A $7.9 million public health office in Roswell is expected to open for Chaves County residents by December. Located at 1601 S. Garden Ave., the facility replaces the county’s former office at 200 E. Chisum St. State and county officials, along with healthcare professionals, celebrated its completion during an Aug. 14 ribbon cutting.

Roswell voters will not decide on a proposed 10-year, 0.25% local option gross receipts tax this November after procedural and technical errors prevented the measure from reaching the ballot. The tax could have raised $4.5 million annually for economic development. City officials may revisit the proposal in 2027 or call a costly special election.

Tony “Nacho” Gonzales was sentenced to 18 years in prison for the 2021 fatal shooting of 29-year-old Jose Diaz in Roswell. Convicted of second-degree murder and tampering with evidence, Gonzales will serve about 13 years after credit for time served. His attorney plans to appeal, citing insufficient evidence. родствен

Chaves County commissioners voted 3-2 to place a proposed five-year, 0.125% local-option gross receipts tax on the November ballot. If approved, the measure would raise the county rate to 6.39% and generate an estimated $2 million annually for economic development projects, including site preparation and public works. Supporters cite growth; opponents warn of added costs.

Roswell city council has placed a proposed 0.25% local option gross receipts tax increase on the November ballot, asking voters to approve a 10-year LEDA tax expected to raise about $4.5 million annually for economic development. Councilors also moved to prepare an ordinance if it passes, while residents voiced concerns about higher taxes and rising living costs.