Artesia’s quiet streets were shaken one evening when 22-year-old Ivan Ortiz, known to family and friends as “Liloso,” was shot and killed near the ABO Apartments at 700 N. 10th Street. What began as a routine call to police ended in a community’s heartbreak.
Police responded to reports of gunfire around 8:10 p.m. and found Ortiz wounded by gunshots. Officers and emergency medics worked desperately to save him, performing lifesaving measures at the scene before he was rushed to the hospital. Despite their efforts, Ortiz did not survive his injuries. He was more than a name on a report; he was a son, companion, and a familiar presence to those who loved him deeply. His sudden death leaves a painful gap in many lives.
Detectives from the Criminal Investigation Division combed the scene long into the night, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. At least one person has been detained for questioning, though authorities emphasize the investigation is active and ongoing, with no charges publicly announced so far. Police are urging anyone with details, even small ones, to reach out to the Artesia Police Department.
Ortiz’s life extended beyond the tragic way it ended. Those who knew him remember a young man with warmth, a bright smile, and a nickname that stuck because it fit him like a well-worn glove. “Liloso” was not just a tag; it was part of a story shared among family and circle of friends. People spoke of his voice, his laughter, and his presence in everyday moments that mattered more than any headline.
In the wake of his death, the Artesia community has rallied in grief and reflection. Friends lit candles, shared memories, and spoke of Ortiz’s hopes and dreams — ordinary human things that now feel far too fragile. Condolences have flowed from neighbors and acquaintances alike, a testament to how one life can quietly touch many others.
As police continue their work, Ortiz’s family asks for privacy but also for justice. They want answers, clarity, and the truth about what happened that night. In the meantime, they’re left with memories that are both comforting and painful — the sound of a laugh, plans for the future that will never unfold, cherished moments now frozen in time.
Ivan “Liloso” Ortiz mattered to the people who knew him. His life had meaning, his absence is deeply felt, and his memory lives on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in peace.
