Dismembered Mom Found in Son's Freezer
In Albuquerque, New Mexico, a disturbing family tragedy has come to light involving 49-year-old Leroy Vallejos, who is now charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence after the discovery of his 69-year-old mother's partially dismembered body in a chest freezer inside his kitchen. What sets this case apart is Vallejos's alleged belief that his mother, Ernestina Lucero, and other family members had "gone to the dark side," as reported by PEOPLE, adding a surreal and unsettling twist of ideological paranoia to an already horrific crime.
The Discovery and Missing Person Report
The case began to unravel in mid- to late October when Ernestina's niece reported her missing to the Albuquerque Police Department. Sources differ slightly on the exact date: People.com notes the report was made on October 17, while the New York Post cites October 23. Regardless, the family had not heard from Ernestina for several weeks, and she had reportedly expressed fear of her son, who lived with her. According to PEOPLE, the niece also relayed that Vallejos claimed he had not seen his mother since Oct. 15, alleging she had left with a boyfriend unknown to the rest of the family.
Police conducted a welfare check at the home on October 28 after a home care company employee reported no contact with Ernestina since early September. A neighbor confirmed they had not seen her for over a month and recalled hearing loud arguments between mother and son, as reported by PEOPLE.
According to the New York Post, when officers arrived, Vallejos told them his mother had gone to Mexico with her boyfriend, a story that quickly fell apart when police found her medication still in the house.
Gruesome Evidence Found
Inside the home, officers discovered a large chest freezer in the kitchen containing plastic bags with what appeared to be human remains. A bloodied saw was found hidden under the kitchen sink, suggesting the dismemberment occurred on-site. The remains were later confirmed by the local coroner to be those of Ernestina Lucero.
Alleged Motive and Confession
According to police affidavits, Vallejos allegedly believed his mother and other family members were part of a "group of people giving their lives to darkness," as reported by PEOPLE. He claimed to have discovered that he had been "promised to Satan" by his mother, based on statements he heard from others he described as "witches" and his own speculation. This ideological paranoia is said to have motivated the crime.
Vallejos admitted to strangling his mother, describing the act as a chokehold that lasted "for a long time," according to PEOPLE. He reportedly told officers he "snapped" after years of dealing with the situation and expressed regret. Despite his confession, he maintained that he was "not a bad guy" and believed the truth would eventually come out.
A Surprising Detail: Attachment to Dogs
One unusual detail in this case is Vallejos's reluctance to turn himself in sooner because he did not want to be separated from his dogs. According to the affidavit, he would have surrendered earlier if not for his attachment to his pets, as reproted by PEOPLE. This humanizing detail contrasts sharply with the brutality of the crime, highlighting the complex nature of the individual involved.
Legal Status and Community Reaction
Vallejos was arrested and is reportedly being held without bail at the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Detention Center. A detention hearing was scheduled for November 4. The charges of first-degree murder and tampering with evidence reflect the severity of the crime and the attempt to conceal it.
The community remains shocked by the case, struggling to comprehend the horror of a son allegedly turning on his mother in such a brutal and bizarre manner. The ideological paranoia Vallejos expressed adds a disturbing layer, raising questions about mental health, family dynamics, and the dark corners of belief systems.
Lessons and Reflections
This tragic story serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of family violence and the importance of paying attention when loved ones express fear or concern about those closest to them. Ernestina's niece's decision to report her missing was crucial in uncovering the truth, underscoring the vital role family and community play in protecting vulnerable individuals.
The case also highlights the potential consequences of untreated mental health issues and delusional beliefs. While the full details of Vallejos's psychological state will be explored in court, his claims about "darkness" and conspiracies suggest a troubled mind grappling with more than just family conflict.
References: His Mother's Remains Were Found in a Freezer. He Allegedly Told Police She Had 'Gone to the Dark Side' | Maniac chops up mom, stores bagged remains in freezer because she gave her life 'to darkness:' police | Man accused of murdering, dismembering his mother -- body parts found in freezer
