SANTA FE, N.M. — What began as a request for a welfare check ended in heartbreak Thursday evening when police discovered a young married couple dead inside their home on Chalan Road in Santa Fe.
Authorities identified the victims as 28-year-old Victoria Romero and 31-year-old Xavier Romero. Both were found suffering from gunshot wounds when officers entered the residence. Police said the injuries were beyond medical intervention, and both were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to investigators, officers were sent to the home after concerns were raised by a person who reported being romantically involved with Victoria Romero. The caller told police that Victoria was believed to be separating from her husband and that a domestic dispute may have occurred.
Police said the caller had spoken with Victoria by phone earlier that day. During the conversation, Xavier Romero reportedly questioned Victoria about the relationship. The call ended shortly afterward, and repeated attempts to reach her again were unsuccessful.
Growing worried, the caller contacted authorities and requested a welfare check. When officers arrived at the residence, they discovered the devastating scene inside the home.
Investigators recovered a firearm and three spent shell casings from the property. Preliminary findings indicate that Xavier Romero’s gunshot wound appeared to be self-inflicted.
Detectives believe the case is a likely murder-suicide, though they continue to examine evidence and interview witnesses as they work to establish exactly what happened in the hours leading up to the deaths.
The tragedy has left many questions unanswered and has shaken those connected to the young couple. Authorities say the investigation remains active, and additional information may be released as more facts are confirmed.
