Good morning, this is Albuquerque Local Pulse for March 18, 2025.
We begin with breaking news that has rattled our community. A 13-year-old boy has been charged with murder following a tragic hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of 63-year-old Scott Dwight Habermehl, a beloved scientist who was riding his bike to work at Sandia National Laboratories. The crash, which occurred early in May, was captured on video from the teenager's stolen car. The footage revealed alarming details, including the boys discussing hitting the cyclist before the incident occurred. Along with the 13-year-old, a 15-year-old has also been charged, and authorities are still searching for an 11-year-old involved who is too young to face charges. This incident has raised significant concerns about youth violence and accountability in our city.
On a brighter note, many are gearing up for the spring season as the weather in Albuquerque is looking quite pleasant today, with temperatures expected to reach the low 70s under sunny skies. This is perfect for local events happening this week. Speaking of which, don’t forget the annual Albuquerque Festival of Flowers kicking off this weekend at the Botanic Garden, where families can enjoy live music and local artisans showcasing their crafts.
In the job market, the demand for skilled workers continues to rise here in Albuquerque. Recent data shows that around 800 new jobs have been created in the tech and healthcare sectors alone. This is encouraging news for those seeking employment in our area. Furthermore, the real estate market remains active with a reported 2.5 percent increase in home prices, as families are increasingly interested in moving to neighborhoods like Nob Hill and the North Valley.
Our local schools are also making headlines. The Albuquerque High School basketball team has advanced to the state finals after a thrilling victory against their rivals last Friday. Meanwhile, students from La Cueva High recently won a regional science competition, showcasing our youth's talents in academics and teamwork.
City Hall has been working on some important initiatives that will affect daily life. New recycling bins are being installed throughout the downtown area to promote sustainability, along with plans to enhance public transportation routes for better accessibility. It’s great to see our local government taking steps towards a greener and more connected city.
Today, there are also reports of minor property crimes across Albuquerque. The Albuquerque Police Department has issued warnings regarding a surge in vehicle thefts, particularly in the southeast quadrant of the city. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and ensure their vehicles are locked and secured.
In terms of community engagement, we hear about a feel-good story from the South Valley. A local couple, who recently opened a bakery, has started a program that provides free meals to underprivileged families every Sunday. Their generosity is certainly inspiring and paints a positive picture of our community’s spirit.
As we wrap up today’s highlights, let’s remember the warmth of our local events and the resilience of our community.
This has been Albuquerque Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
