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Rio Rancho teen identified as victim in UNM shooting; vigil Tuesday
Michael LaMotte
Published
Modified
Update: A vigil will be held July 29 at 7:30 p.m. at Haynes Park according to an Elite Physique social media post.
ALBUQUERQUE — The 14-year-old shot and killed in a July 25 University of New Mexico shooting is confirmed to be a student from Rio Rancho.
Rio Rancho Public Schools confirmed July 26 that Michael LaMotte was set to attend his sophomore year at Rio Rancho High School this fall. Wyndham Kemsley, RRPS public information officer, also confirmed LaMotte attended Lincoln Middle School.
Groups and family members have started fundraisers for LaMotte's services.
"Michael was was a beloved son, brother and a true friend to many. His loss has left a hole in the lives of everyone who knew and loved him," Jordan Ortiz, LaMotte's cousin, said in a GoFundMe he started.
As of July 28, three days after the tragic death of LaMotte, the GoFundMe has raised just over $15,000, nearing the goal of $16,000.
Elite Physique, a local gym in Rio Rancho, also started several fundraisers on varying platforms for LaMotte, calling the death tragic.
"He was a beloved son, a cherished friend, and a young man with a future full of promise," a July 26 Facebook post reads.
The gym states LaMotte's mother was a regular member with them.
"She has always shown incredible strength while doing her best to provide for her family. Now, she faces the unimaginable pain of losing her child. No parent should ever have to endure such heartache," it states.
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Their post calls the community to action and requests support in many forms.
An obituary was also filed for LaMotte at an Albuquerque funeral home. A date has not been set for his services.
Ways people can donate:
• cash.app/$Leebumble
• gofund.me/82d07d8f
• Apple Pay: 505-550-8233
• Cash dropoff at Elite
