The town of Jal, New Mexico, is reeling after a deadly shooting at the Merryman RV Park that claimed three lives early Wednesday morning. According to the Lea County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to the park at around 5:56 a.m. on December 10, 2025, after reports came in about several unresponsive individuals. What officers and emergency crews found upon arrival has shaken the tight-knit community and prompted a full-scale investigation.
When Jal Police and EMS reached the scene, they discovered a male and female victim who had both suffered fatal gunshot wounds. A second male was also found nearby with what authorities described as a self-inflicted gunshot wound. First responders attempted to save him and transported him to a hospital in Kermit, Texas, but he later died despite medical efforts. The grim scene immediately raised concerns about what had taken place in the quiet RV park just before sunrise.
Later that day, the Lea County Sheriff’s Office released the identities of the deceased. The victims were 20-year-old Álvaro Garza García and 22-year-old Andrea Rodriguez, both from Del Rio, Texas. The suspected shooter was identified as 27-year-old Juan Morales of El Paso, Texas. Investigators believe Morales fatally shot García and Rodriguez before taking his own life. However, authorities have not released further details about the events leading up to the shooting or what may have motivated the violence.
Officials stressed that, based on current evidence, the case appears to be an isolated incident. They say they are not searching for any additional suspects and there is no ongoing threat to residents in the area. Still, the tragic loss of three young lives has left many in shock. RV parks often become close communities for those who live or work there, making the impact of this incident especially heavy for neighbors who knew the victims.
The Criminal Investigations Division of the Lea County Sheriff’s Office is now leading the inquiry. Detectives are working to determine the relationships among the individuals and whether any recent conflicts or personal issues may have contributed to the deadly confrontation. For now, investigators remain tight-lipped as they continue gathering evidence, reviewing timelines, and speaking with anyone who may have information that could help explain what happened.
Authorities are urging anyone with knowledge related to the case to contact the Lea County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (575) 396-9611. As the investigation continues, the community of Jal mourns the sudden and heartbreaking loss of three lives.
