In Loving Memory of Roman Valenciano
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Albuquerque community is mourning the tragic loss of Roman Valenciano, 19, who was harmed Thursday in a road-rage incident on San Mateo Boulevard. Roman was driving to pick up his mother after work when his life was abruptly and senselessly taken.
According to Albuquerque police, surveillance footage shows a silver Ford Mustang making a U-turn near San Mateo Boulevard and Phoenix Road at approximately 1:45 p.m., then turning directly into the path of Roman’s gray Nissan Sentra. Police report that the Mustang brake-checked Roman’s vehicle and came to a stop in the roadway. Detectives say the Mustang’s driver, Cecilio Lopez, then pulled alongside Roman and fired multiple rounds, which were confirmed by a ShotSpotter alert.
Authorities followed up on leads, observing the Mustang return to the area multiple times. Investigators later learned that Lopez had taken the Mustang to a body shop to paint it black, in an apparent attempt to evade detection. Using license-plate readers and other investigative tools, police located Lopez, who was on probation for a prior felony conviction. He has since been charged with murder, tampering with evidence, shooting from a motor vehicle resulting in death, and felon in possession of a firearm.
Roman Valenciano is remembered as a young man with a bright future, whose life was tragically cut short. Loved ones describe him as caring, hardworking, and devoted to his family, particularly his mother, for whom he was on his way to pick up that fateful afternoon. Friends, family, and the wider community are left grappling with the heartbreak of losing someone so young in such a senseless act of violence.
In the midst of this tragedy, the Albuquerque community stands together to honor Roman’s life, remembering his kindness, his dreams, and the joy he brought to those around him. His family, friends, and neighbors continue to mourn his passing while seeking justice for this heartbreaking loss.
Roman Valenciano’s memory will live on through those who loved him, the stories they share, and the lasting impression of his life. While the community comes to terms with this loss, his spirit, compassion, and the moments he shared with loved ones will never be forgotten









