In the early hours of a fateful morning in May, a tragic incident unfolded in Albuquerque, New Mexico, shaking the community and leaving a family mourning the loss of a loved one. Scott Dwight Habermehl, 63, was cycling to his job at Sandia National Laboratories when his life was abruptly cut short by a hit-and-run driver. Authorities later identified the alleged driver as a 13-year-old boy, who, along with a 15-year-old accomplice, now faces multiple serious charges, including murder.
- 13-year-old charged with murder in hit-and-run
- Incident captured on video inside stolen car
- 15-year-old also charged, 11-year-old cannot be
- Victim was cyclist, physicist Scott Habermehl
- Witnesses recorded taunting comments before crash
- Video reported to police by middle school principal
The incident, which occurred on a day like any other, took a grim turn when the stolen vehicle swerved into the bike lane, striking Habermehl as he rode. The crash was captured on video taken from inside the car, a haunting recording that law enforcement officials say brought to light just how callous the actions of the young occupants were. Witnesses reported hearing a voice, believed to be that of the 13-year-old driver, saying he was about to hit the bicyclist, followed by the 15-year-old encouraging him to “just bump him, brah.” Moments later, the sounds of metal crumpling resonated through the recording.
“This is a shocking and tragic case,” stated a spokesperson from the Albuquerque Police Department. “We have a responsibility to hold individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their age.” The 13-year-old, who authorities believe was at the wheel, now faces charges including an open count of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, leaving the scene of an accident involving great bodily harm or death, and unlawful possession of a handgun. His 15-year-old passenger faces similar charges. Meanwhile, an 11-year-old, also allegedly involved, has so far escaped charges due to age constraints.
The twisted nature of the crime deepens with the revelation that the harrowing video circulated on social media, attracting attention from concerned citizens and school officials, who reported it to the police. As the community grapples with this incident’s implications, it raises unsettling questions about youth violence and juvenile accountability.
In the wake of this tragedy, Scott Habermehl’s family is left to mourn a cherished father and husband. His obituary notes that he was a dedicated engineer who earned a Ph.D. in physics and spent decades at Sandia National Laboratories. He is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his adventurous spirit, having traveled to South America to challenge one of its tallest peaks and enjoyed riding horses in the scenic areas surrounding their home in Corrales, New Mexico.
The investigation remains ongoing as the Albuquerque Police Department works closely with the District Attorney’s Office and the Children, Youth and Families Department to determine appropriate charges for each individual involved. The 13-year-old is expected to be booked into the Juvenile Detention Center soon, while authorities continue to seek the 15 and 11-year-olds.
As details emerge, the community reflects on the broader implications of the case, highlighting the need for addressing youth behavior and the circumstances that lead to such reckless choices. Authorities are expected to provide further updates as the legal proceedings unfold, and one can only hope that this heartbreaking incident prompts necessary discussions about youth, responsibility, and the importance of safety on the roads.
