UPDATE: Teen victim dies from gunshot to head; investigation continues; RRPS issues statement

UPDATE 8 p.m. Nov. 1: Rio Rancho Public Schools issued a statement to parents at 4:15 p.m. Friday that appeared to be a response the the death of a 15-year-old from Wednesday's shooting.

"Rio Rancho Public Schools is deeply saddened by the news of the passing of a former RRHS student. The district extends our sincerest condolences to their family and friends during this difficult time. RRPS is cooperating with the Rio Rancho Police Department and other law enforcement agencies to help ensure that those responsible are held accountable," it reads.

The district added that administrators have developed a plan to help students and staff cope with the loss, noting that parents with concerns about their child's reaction to it should contact their child's school counselors, social workers or administrative staff.

RRPS also noted that an increased number of security officers and RRPD officers would be present at Friday's RRHS vs Cleveland football game. "This is not in response to any perceived threats posed towards our community, but rather an opportunity to help ease anxiety and come together as a community to heal in a safe and constructive manner," RRPS said.

"We appreciate the concerns raised and understand how difficult the last few days have been for our students, staff, parents and community as a whole," the statement continued. "At times like these, it is crucial that we work together to lift each other up, support one another, and help mend our wider Rio Rancho community."

UPDATE 10 a.m. Nov. 1: Rio Rancho Police confirmed the victim died at around midnight Nov. 1. The investigation is ongoing and information is limited at this time. Updates will be published as more information becomes available. Family members took to social media identifying the victim as 15-year-old Adrian Maestas Jr. They also asked for prayers and justice for the young victim.

RIO RANCHO — Rio Rancho Police Department released information tied to an Oct. 30 shooting Thursday.

According to the release, officers responded to reports of a shooting near the intersection of Inca Road and Second Street SE that came in at 4:10 p.m. They found a juvenile male with a gunshot wound to the head. Rio Rancho Police and Rio Rancho Fire Rescue began rendering life-saving aid before the victim was transported to an area hospital for trauma care, where he remains in critical condition.

The update identified the victim as a juvenile. Previous reports indicated the victim was an adult.

The investigation is still ongoing and active at this time. The Rio Rancho Police Criminal Investigations Division is following up all leads to identify those involved in this incident in order to file appropriate criminal charges which will lead to successful prosecution.

"We extend our deepest sympathy to everyone affected by this tragedy. Our hearts go out to all those impacted, and we stand with you during this difficult time," Capt. Jacquelynn Reedy said in a news release. "In the City of Rio Rancho, community safety is our highest priority. We are committed to ensuring that everyone feels secure and protected in their neighborhoods, workplaces, and schools. Violence in any form will not be tolerated, and we are resolute in upholding a zero-tolerance approach to any actions that threaten the well-being of our residents."

The release further states that officers have shown dedication and bravery in working to maintain peace and safety.

"Together, let’s stand for a city where every resident can thrive without fear. Thank you for supporting our mission and our dedicated law enforcement officers who make our safety possible," it reads.

Those with information on the shooting should contact Detective Arion Hayes at ahayes@rrnm.gov.

This is at least the second incident involving gunshots in recent days. Reedy also confirmed on Wednesday that shots were fired at a weekend Halloween party involving juveniles. That incident also remains under investigation.