APD Arrests Suspect Accused of Killing Sister

ALBUQUERQUE - The Albuquerque Police Department arrested a man overnight who is accused of fatally shooting his sister in July.

Police arrested Steven Archuleta, Jr., (5/20/91), and charged him early this morning for the July 21, 2021, murder of his sister, Catherine Sanchez, at a Northeast Heights apartment. Catherine Sanchez, 32, was shot in the face as she sat on her couch in her apartment, located at 6001 Topke Pl., N.E. Her children witnessed the shooting.

APD Homicide detectives were actively investigating the shooting. Late Saturday, Archuleta called 911 and stated he wanted to turn himself in to police because he murdered his sister in July. He identified his deceased sister and told the 911 call taker that he wanted to commit suicide because of what he had done, and that he was armed with a black handgun.

Officers in the Northeast Area Command responded to Archuleta’s home and took him into custody. Homicide detectives interviewed him, and he was booked this morning into the Metro Detention Center on an open count of murder and tampering with evidence.

APD has advocates for victims of violent crimes, including domestic violence and sex crimes. Victims, including family of homicide victims, can call 505-924-6028 to reach one of the advocates. Victim advocates can also be reached by email: [email protected].