Authorities in Albuquerque have closed a major chapter in a 2023 homicide case that shocked the community. Angel Salazar, 40, has been sentenced to life in prison for her role in the violent killing of Ramon Martinez at a Days Inn motel on Central Avenue. The case, which began when police discovered a man dead inside a motel room, quickly developed into a complex investigation involving surveillance footage, forensic evidence and an ongoing search for a still-unidentified male suspect. Salazar was convicted of second-degree murder, felony murder and tampering with evidence and will be required to serve at least 30 years before becoming eligible for parole.

Discovery of the Crime Scene

On September 5, 2023, Albuquerque police responded to a call at the Days Inn on Central Avenue after reports of a body inside a room. When officers arrived, they found the victim, Ramon Martinez, deceased amid a gruesome scene marked by extensive blood evidence and signs of struggle. A trail of blood extended from the motel room toward the street, and investigators recovered bloody footprints both inside and outside the room. According to court documents, the victim had sustained over 80 wounds consistent with a hatchet attack. Authorities launched a full-scale investigation, reviewing security footage that would become critical in identifying the suspects involved.

Surveillance Footage and Key Evidence

Video surveillance from the motel captured Salazar and a male companion approaching Martinez, who had been sitting outside smoking around 9:45 a.m. The footage showed the unidentified man slipping on brass knuckles before both suspects followed Martinez into his room. Roughly 30 minutes later, the two emerged with visible blood on their arms and carrying what appeared to be the victim’s belongings. Investigators believe the fatal attack occurred during this window. Forensic teams later confirmed that Salazar’s bloody footprints matched those found at the scene. The surveillance footage, combined with physical evidence, became central to building the prosecution’s case against her.

Arrest and Investigation

Following the discovery of Martinez’s body, police tracked Angel Salazar to another hotel located less than a mile from the Days Inn. When apprehended, Salazar requested medical assistance for an injury to her hand, as well as for fentanyl withdrawal. Authorities noted the hand injury may have occurred during the attack. Detectives attempted to interview her, but she didn’t provide a statement. The male suspect seen with her in the footage has never been identified, and investigators continue to search for his whereabouts. The Albuquerque Police Department has asked anyone who has information about the unidentified male to contact them.

Court Proceedings and Sentencing

In August 2025, a jury found Angel Salazar guilty. During the trial, prosecutors detailed how the two suspects carried out the assault and left Martinez to die from multiple hatchet wounds. The court also heard evidence that Salazar’s footprints were found exiting the scene and that she fled the area afterward. On Thursday, Bernalillo County District Attorney Sam Bregman announced her life sentence. New Mexico state law doesn’t allow for parole eligibility until a prisoner has served at least 30 years. The sentence marked the culmination of nearly a year of investigation and prosecution. Authorities reiterated their efforts to locate the second suspect still at large.

Family Impact and Ongoing Search for Accomplice

During sentencing, Ramon Martinez’s daughter, Raeann, addressed the court, expressing sorrow over her father’s death and the lasting impact of Salazar’s actions. She said she hoped Salazar would spend her life remembering the harm she caused. While Salazar received a life sentence and must serve 30 years before becoming eligible for parole, the investigation is not fully closed. The male suspect seen on surveillance footage with Salazar before and after the attack remains unidentified and has not been located. Police continue to seek information from the public to help identify and find the man believed to have participated in the murder alongside Salazar.

Sources: KRQE News (1), KRQE News (2), KRQE News (3), Law & Crime