FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PORTALES POLICE DEPARTMENT
Date: October 29, 2026
Subject: UPDATE: Homicide Investigation – 600 Block of South Avenue B
PORTALES, NM — The Portales Police Department is providing an update regarding the homicide of
46-year-old Jesus Ornelas that occurred on the night of October 24, 2026, in the 600 block of South
Avenue B.
Zachary Contreras, 20, was taken into custody on October 26, 2026, on unrelated charges. On
October 27, 2026, an arrest warrant was obtained and served at the Roosevelt County Detention
Center.
The suspect is currently facing the following charges:
• Murder in the 1st degree
• Tampering with Evidence
• Aggravated Assault
We want to extend our sincere gratitude to the 9th Judicial District Major Crimes Unit, as well as the
dedicated detectives and officers of the Portales Police Department. Their hard work, long hours, and
swift collaboration have been instrumental in advancing this investigation. The fact that the
defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed
innocent until and unless proven guilty.
For further comments please contact the 9th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
