Fatal Shooting at UNM Campus

The University of New Mexico UNM, located in the heart of Albuquerque, is known for its vibrant academic culture, groundbreaking research, and diverse student body. Yet July 2025 has been a month that’s tested the spirit of this iconic institution. A devastating act of violence shook the campus community just as new students were arriving for orientation. Despite this heartbreaking event, UNM continues to serve as a beacon of progress through major scientific discoveries, nationally recognized research, and distinguished faculty achievements. In this article, we’ll explore the latest headlines from UNM—from a campus tragedy to scientific triumphs.

UNM
Fatal shooting scene at University of New Mexico campus with police presence and emergency responders.

Campus on Edge: Fatal Shooting at Casas del Rio Residence

In the early hours of July 25, 2025, tragedy struck the University of New Mexico when a shooting occurred at the Casas del Rio student housing complex. One person was killed, and another suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect, who has not yet been identified, fled the scene and remains at large. Authorities immediately issued a shelter-in-place alert for the entire campus, urging students and staff to remain indoors as law enforcement scoured the area.

This incident occurred during what should have been a celebratory time: new student orientation week. The attack has deeply affected both new and returning students, sparking serious concerns over campus safety. UNM Police, alongside Albuquerque law enforcement and federal investigators, are actively working the case. The university has since made counseling and support services available for all students and staff, and President Garnett Stokes released a statement expressing sorrow and solidarity with those impacted.

As classes prepare to begin in just a few weeks, students and faculty are left with heavy hearts and difficult questions. The incident has reignited conversations about campus security measures, mental health support, and the urgent need for violence prevention strategies at public universities across the country.

A Beacon of Innovation: NASA Exploration Science Forum Held at UNM

While the shooting understandably dominates the news cycle, it’s worth highlighting a major scientific event that recently brought prestige to the university: UNM hosted the NASA Exploration Science Forum from July 22 to July 24. This high-profile gathering welcomed scientists, astronauts, engineers, and students from across the nation to discuss the future of lunar and planetary exploration.

The forum covered essential topics such as sustainable lunar infrastructure, advanced propulsion systems, and space mining potential. It also emphasized the importance of building an inclusive and ethical framework for the future of human space travel. Students from UNM had the rare opportunity to attend panel discussions, participate in workshops, and network with NASA leaders, placing the university firmly at the center of space research innovation.

Hosting this forum marks a significant achievement for UNM’s planetary sciences and engineering departments and further elevates the university’s status as a research powerhouse in the American Southwest.

Environmental Crisis Unveiled: PFAS Contamination in New Mexico

Meanwhile, UNM researchers have brought to light an urgent environmental concern affecting communities in southern New Mexico. A recent study conducted by the university found shockingly high levels of PFAS—dangerous synthetic chemicals often referred to as “forever chemicals”—in wildlife and water sources near Holloman Lake.

PFAS are linked to numerous health issues, including cancer and immune system disorders. The contamination at Holloman Lake is believed to be the result of historic military use of firefighting foams at nearby installations. UNM’s team collected and analyzed hundreds of samples, discovering some of the highest PFAS levels ever recorded worldwide.

This research has been published in leading environmental journals and is now prompting lawmakers and environmental groups to call for immediate remediation efforts. UNM’s involvement in this project underscores its role in addressing real-world challenges through science and advocacy. The team hopes the findings will serve as a wake-up call and a catalyst for change at both the local and national levels.

Celebrating Academic Excellence Amid Adversity

Despite the somber news of the recent shooting, the UNM community has reason to celebrate its ongoing contributions to education and academic leadership.

In June 2025, UNM alumna Dr. Mary Stiner was elected to the prestigious National Academy of Sciences. Her extensive work in anthropology and human evolutionary theory has made her one of the most respected scholars in her field. Her recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the strength of UNM’s academic programs.

In addition, the university’s FRESSH program—Fostering Research Expansion in the Social Sciences and Humanities—welcomed its third cohort of faculty members this summer. The initiative is aimed at increasing grant success and interdisciplinary collaboration in traditionally underfunded fields. Participants receive mentorship, proposal-writing support, and the opportunity to join national research networks.

UNM is also marking a major transition at its award-winning radio station, KUNM-FM. After three decades of leadership, longtime general manager Richard Towne is stepping down. His departure marks the end of an era, as he helped build KUNM into one of the most respected public radio outlets in the region.

The University of New Mexico is a community defined not only by its challenges but also by its resilience, brilliance, and sense of purpose. While the recent shooting casts a long and painful shadow, the campus is also a place of discovery, innovation, and deep human connection. From hosting NASA’s premier science forum to uncovering crucial environmental dangers—and from nurturing award-winning researchers to shaping public discourse—UNM remains a dynamic force in higher education. As it navigates the difficult days ahead, the Lobo community stands united: grieving, learning, and growing.