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On April 21, 2016, around 5:00 p.m., New Mexico State Police was dispatched to 1304 Serinna Court in Silver City in reference to a possible murder/suicide. It was reported that off-duty Silver City Police Captain Marcello Contreras (41) had fatally shot his girlfriend Nikki Bascom (31) and then shot himself.

Prior to the arrival of NMSP units, Silver City Police Department officers responded to the call, followed by Grant County Sheriff's deputies who secured the scene. The investigation was subsequently turned over to the New Mexico State Police.

New Mexico State Police investigators responded to the scene and learned Mr. Contreras and Ms. Bascom had been in a relationship and were in the process of separating. On April 21, 2016, at approximately 4:00 p.m., a male witness observed Mr. Contreras arrive at 1304 Serrina Court. The male witness approached Mr. Contreras who then pointed a gun at the him. Mr. Contreras demanded to speak with Ms. Bascom, who was inside a vehicle in the driveway.

The witness negotiated with Mr. Contreras who eventually agreed to surrender the firearm to him. Ms. Bascom then exited the vehicle and Mr. Contreras produced a second firearm and fatally shot Ms. Bascom several times. He then turned the firearm on himself. The witness called 911 and attempted to provide rescue aid to Ms. Bascom. However Mr. Contreras and Ms. Bascom died at the scene.

The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau Crime Scene Team processed the scene and collected evidence. Investigators are continuing to gather facts in this case.

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NM State Police News Release

A community tragedy. Sincere condolences to family and friends~

Indeed, a tragedy on so many levels. The one I'm most concerned with is the unnamed "witness" who thought for a moment he had saved the day.

In an update to the Murder Suicide it has been learned that though the rumor says that the SCPD Chief's daughter was killed it is in fact not true but rather her best friend for 17 years, Nikki Bascom, who was killed and that it was the Chief"s son-in-law who ask for and was given the first gun.

Because of this close relationship both Nikki and, by extension her boyfriend, Captain Contreras, the shooter were like family to Chief Reynolds and his family.

The investigation by the NM State Police is still open. There has also been criticism, a conspiracy theory as to why the SCPD has not released any statement. The SCPD cannot investigate themselves nor one of their own but believe me that there is great sadness and embarrassment even guilt within the ranks.

Thank you, John, for this update. This is really important for us to all understand. It is tragic and painful for everyone.

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Stéphane

Stéphane Trustorff Luchini

"There isn't anyone you couldn't love once you've heard their story." -- Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB