Las Cruces man arrested for allegedly trying to strangle his mother

Doa Ana County Sheriff’s detectives arrested a 32-year-old Las Cruces man after he allegedly tried to strangle his mother.

He allegedly tried to strangle her in front of the man’s 9-year-old daughter.

According to court documents, Omar Barrio, who lives in the 2400 block of Picacho Avenue, went to his mother’s Chaparral home Tuesday night after he had reportedly been drinking.

Barrio’s mother, 66, told detectives that her son became confrontational, so she reportedly locked herself and her granddaughter in her bedroom.

Sheriff’s officials say Barrio reportedly kicked the door open, destroyed the victim’s cell phone and allegedly told her, “You’re not going to call the police. Tonight you are going to die.”

The victim said Barrio wrapped his hands around her neck, and threatened to do the same to his daughter.

The child and the grandmother were able to run from the bedroom and lock themselves in a bathroom to call 911.

Barrio was arrested and charged with aggravated battery against a household member causing great bodily harm, negligent child abuse, battery against a household member, interference with communication and criminal damage to property.

He’s being held at the Doa Ana County Detention Center without bond, pending arraignment.

Detectives have also made a referral to child protective services to document the incident.