Ninth Judicial District Attorney Quentin Ray announced on July 3, 2025 that a Curry County jury found 47-year-old Tonekwueme Hamilton guilty of First-Degree Murder for the fatal stabbing of Jose Sena on March 18, 2021. The conviction followed a multi-day trial in district court, where the jury heard detailed testimony and evidence surrounding the violent incident that occurred in front of the Main Street Townhomes in Clovis, New Mexico.
On the day of the killing, Clovis Police officers were dispatched to a report of an unconscious male lying in the street at Townsgate Plaza. Upon arrival, officers located Jose Sena deceased, suffering from multiple stab wounds to the chest and abdomen. Near his body, investigators recovered two kitchen knives stained with what appeared to be blood.
As officers canvassed the area, Officer Macrea encountered Hamilton outside a nearby apartment. When questioned, Hamilton immediately confessed, stating, “It was me, sir,” and later, “I stabbed him.” He further claimed the victim had “bragged on killing my brother.”
Hamilton was taken into custody and transported to the Clovis Police Department, where he was interviewed by investigators with the District Attorney’s Office Major Crimes Unit. During the interview, Hamilton admitted to stabbing Sena and confirmed that the knives used came from his own residence.
The jury deliberated on the evidence presented, including Hamilton’s confession, forensic findings, and testimony from law enforcement. Today, they returned a guilty verdict on the charge of First-Degree Murder, a conviction that carries a mandatory life sentence under New Mexico law. Sentencing will take place at a later date to be set by the Court.
District Attorney Quentin Ray expressed his appreciation to the jury, stating, “We are especially grateful to the jurors for their careful attention to the evidence and their commitment to justice. this jury recognized the deliberate and intentional nature of the crime and held the defendant fully accountable by returning a First-Degree Murder conviction.”
He continued: “Our office remains committed to seeking justice for victims and protecting the safety of Curry County. I am proud of the work done by our prosecutors, investigators, and the Clovis Police Department to secure this outcome.”“This was a senseless and violent act, and today’s verdict brings justice for the victim and his family,” Ray added. “We commend the Clovis Police Department and our Major Crimes Unit for their tireless work in ensuring this outcome.”
The case was prosecuted by Chief Deputy District Attorney, Jake Boazman and Deputy District Attorney, Brittany Hudson. Hamilton was represented by defense attorney Sandy Gallagher.
