Two individuals have been arrested and charged with arson in connection with recent fires that have plagued the small Torrance County community of Mountainair, Mayor Peter Nieto announced in a letter to residents this week.
According to the Torrance County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after the Mountainair Fire Department and Sheriff’s Office responded to a structure fire on Ranger Station Road on July 20. Investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office determined the fire had been intentionally set, classifying it as arson.
Detectives with the TCSO Criminal Investigations Division launched an investigation and identified two suspects. Arrest warrants were obtained for arson, burglary and conspiracy charges. The first suspect was arrested on July 28, while the second individual was located and arrested on July 30 by TCSO Patrol Division deputies working with officers from the Mountainair Police Department.
“Over the past few months, we’ve experienced several fires, each one deeply troubling and concerning for all of us,” Nieto wrote in his statement to residents. “Like you, we share in the frustration and anger, especially on behalf of those who have lost homes and property.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies, including the Mountainair Police Department, Torrance County Sheriff’s Office, the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Mountainair Fire Department.
According to Nieto, law enforcement has identified a property on 6th Street where many individuals connected to recent fires and burglaries have been staying. Stolen items from a recent burglary at PMS Headstart were recovered at this location. Officials have been in contact with the property owner, who Nieto says is aware of the issues and is expected to take appropriate action.
The Torrance County Sheriff’s Office noted that other recent fires reported throughout Mountainair remain under investigation.
The mayor used the announcement as an opportunity to address community concerns about reporting crimes, acknowledging that many residents question whether their reports lead to action.
“Solving a crime is like solving a jigsaw puzzle. Each report, each testimony, each detail is a crucial piece,” Nieto explained. “If even one is missing, the full picture can’t be seen and justice can’t be served.”
Nieto emphasized the difficulty residents face when reporting crimes in a close-knit community, particularly when suspects may be neighbors or acquaintances. However, he stressed that community safety depends on residents’ willingness to come forward with information.
“The accountability should not fall on the person who speaks up, it should fall on the person who committed the crime,” the mayor stated. “Excusing or covering for criminal behavior, no matter the relationship, undermines our entire community’s safety.”
Law enforcement officials indicate they will continue pursuing additional individuals connected to these crimes. The mayor encouraged residents with any information about the fires to come forward, noting that additional details can lead to stronger charges and longer sentences for those responsible.
Mayor Nieto concluded his message with a call for community unity: “Let’s come together, Mountainair. Let’s do what’s right and let’s start reporting to the police.”
The Torrance County Sheriff’s Office commended the collaboration between agencies in solving the case and thanked all departments involved for their assistance.
Residents with information about the fires are encouraged to contact the Torrance County Sheriff’s Office at 505-544-4900, use the anonymous tip line at 505-510-9003, or email tips@tcnm.us.
