A murder charge has been brought against a New Mexico man following a shooting at an Albuquerque movie theater.
The incident occurred during a dispute over seating, according to local police.
Enrique Padilla, 19, allegedly shot and killed Michael Tenorio, 52, on Sunday evening, June 18, at the Cinemark Century Rio movie theater in northeast Albuquerque. The altercation took place during a screening of the comedy film “No Hard Feelings” and involved Tenorio, who was accompanied by his wife, and Padilla, who was accompanied by his girlfriend.
Police reports indicate that theater staff members attempted to mediate the situation before it escalated. Prior to the shooting, Padilla reportedly threw a bucket of popcorn at Tenorio and his wife. In response, Tenorio pushed Padilla toward a wall. Allegedly, Padilla then fired several shots at Tenorio, who later collapsed.
According to authorities, Tenorio’s wife said that she observed a green laser beam emanating from what she believed to be a handgun just before the shooting occurred. Despite the efforts of an off-duty police officer present at the theater, Tenorio succumbed to his injuries and died at the scene.
Roughly 20 witnesses contacted the police to provide information about the incident.
Following the shooting, Padilla and his girlfriend engaged in a physical fight with Tenorio’s wife. They later fled the scene. It remains uncertain at this time whether Padilla’s girlfriend will face any charges in connection with the incident.
Padilla was later discovered hiding behind a bush outside an emergency exit of the theater. He had sustained injuries and sought help from a bystander to call emergency services.
The investigation into this event is ongoing, and more details are yet to be revealed.
