LCPD arrest couple in January home invasion, deadly shooting

Police arrested the 21-year-old man injured in the January 31, 2017 shooting on Wyoming Avenue, along with his suspected accomplice, in what investigators believe was a home-invasion.

Marcelo Ortiz Bejarano, of the 6500 block of Puffin Street, is charged with one count each of Aggravated Battery Causing Great Bodily Harm, Aggravated Burglary and Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Burglary.

Police also arrested 21-year-old Ashley Rey Martinez, of the 1700 block of Alamo Street, and charged her with one count of Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Battery.

Detectives said Martinez arranged to have Bejarano and his brother, 29-year-old Christopher “Chris” Mendoza, accompany her to 1404 Wyoming Avenue in order to retrieve keys to a 1984 Ford Mustang they claimed was stolen by the 26-year-old man who resided at the apartment.

Detectives learned the 26-year-old man knew Martinez was going to his apartment but was under the impression she was going by herself and only to visit.

An investigation allegedly revealed that when Martinez arrived at the apartment, shortly before 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 31, Bejarano barged his way inside and allegedly assaulted the 26-year-old man.

Mendoza then entered the apartment and is believed to have also struck the victim, police said. The 26-year-old, who suffered multiple facial fractures during the battery, ultimately armed himself with a 9mm handgun and fired several rounds at the assailants, police said.

Mendoza was struck in the chest while Bejarano was shot in his left leg, police added. Both men were transported to area hospitals where Mendoza died from his injuries. The victim was also transported to an area hospital but his injuries were not life-threatening.

Detectives believe the 26-year-old victim of the home invasion was in fear for his life and discharged the handgun in self-defense. He fled the apartment but was located by police a short time after the incident.

Bejarano was arrested Friday evening and booked into the Dona Ana County Detention Center with bond set at $25,000 cash. Martinez was arrested Feb. 9. She was also booked into jail with her bond set at $10,000 cash.