His Mother’s Remains Were Found in a Freezer. He Allegedly Told Police She Had ‘Gone to the Dark Side’

A New Mexico man has been accused of a heinous crime involving his own mother. Leroy Vallejos, 49, is facing severe charges of murder in the first degree and tampering with evidence in connection with the death of his 69-year-old mother, Ernestina Lucero. The horrifying details of this case emerged when Vallejos revealed to authorities that he believed his mother had joined a group involved in dark activities. Vallejos confessed to taking the life of his mother, claiming she had turned to the ‘dark side’ along with others.

The distressing ordeal began when Ernestina’s concerned niece contacted the Albuquerque Police Department to report her aunt missing on October 17. Investigators discovered that Ernestina had not been in contact with her family for a month, and she had confided in her niece about being scared of Vallejos, with whom she lived. Vallejos allegedly informed the niece that Ernestina had left with a boyfriend unknown to anyone. When officers conducted a welfare check at the residence on October 28, they were met with a chilling discovery.

Inside a chest freezer in the kitchen, authorities found what appeared to be the dismembered remains of an adult human wrapped in plastic bags. Vallejos was swiftly detained after making contradictory statements about his mother’s whereabouts. He reportedly mentioned to a neighbour that his mother had gone to Mexico with her boyfriend. Vallejos later admitted to the police that he had strangled his mother, claiming she was part of a dark group. He expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that he had struggled with internal turmoil for many years before reaching a breaking point.

Vallejos’ unsettling disclosures continued as he elaborated on his belief that his mother, along with other relatives, were involved in activities associated with darkness. In a shocking revelation, he claimed to have heard statements from ‘witches’ indicating that he had been promised to Satan by his mother. Vallejos even revealed that his mother’s remains had been stored in the freezer for weeks. He confessed to using physical force on his mother, indicating a disturbing level of violence in the act.

Despite his remorse and desire to surrender to authorities, Vallejos expressed a reluctance to be separated from his dogs, delaying his decision to turn himself in. A detention hearing is scheduled for November 4, shedding light on the formal legal proceedings awaiting Vallejos. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and darkness that can lurk within family dynamics, leading to unimaginable outcomes.

The case of Leroy Vallejos and his deceased mother has shocked the local community, prompting reflection on the underlying factors that could drive a person to commit such a heinous act. The investigation into this harrowing crime is ongoing, with authorities working diligently to uncover all details and motives behind this appalling incident. As this chilling story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and intervention to prevent such tragic events from recurring in the future.

In a process that has left many reeling, the solemn truth of the matter is slowly coming to light through the diligent efforts of law enforcement officials. The repercussions of Vallejos’ actions have sent shockwaves through the neighbourhood, leaving many grappling with the disturbing nature of the allegations. As the legal proceedings progress, the community remains vigilant, seeking justice and closure for the tragic loss of Ernestina Lucero, whose life was cut short in a manner that defies comprehension.

The grim saga of Leroy Vallejos serves as a stark reminder of the darkness that can consume individuals when faced with inner turmoil and distorted beliefs. The profound implications of this case extend beyond the immediate circumstances, underscoring the necessity of early intervention and support for individuals grappling with mental health challenges. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this horrific incident, the resilience and unity displayed in seeking justice for Ernestina Lucero stand as a beacon of hope amidst the shadows cast by this unsettling tragedy.