Shocking Double Homicide in Clovis: Teens Charged With Parents’ Murder
Tragic Incident Unfolds in Clovis
In a deeply unsettling event, two teenagers from Clovis, New Mexico, have been arrested in connection with the double homicide of their parents, Oscar and Dina Munoz. The Clovis Police Department responded to a reported burglary on December 15, 2025, at approximately 5 a.m., only to discover the bodies of the couple shot while they slept in their home on York Drive. Dina Munoz, 71, was declared dead at the scene, while 58-year-old Oscar Munoz later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital in Lubbock, Texas.
Details of the Arrest
Authorities apprehended 19-year-old Darren Munoz, the couple’s son, and his accomplice, 18-year-old Julio Zamora, charging them with two counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and criminal solicitation. The investigation revealed that Darren allegedly orchestrated the brutal act with the intent to gain access to his parents’ finances, as Oscar Munoz owned an Allsup’s convenience store franchise in the area.
Evidence Points to Premeditation
The Clovis Police Department’s investigation uncovered alarming evidence of a premeditated plan. Text messages between the two suspects indicated that they had discussed the presence of the Munoz parents at home prior to the murders. Witnesses have stated that the idea had been in the works for weeks, with plans initially including tampering with Oscar Munoz’s vehicle brakes. A friend of Darren’s disclosed that he had traded a rifle for a ghost gun—the weapon used in the crime—just the night before the homicide, further indicating a calculated approach.
The Role of Ghost Guns in the Crime
The use of ghost guns, firearms without serial numbers that are difficult to trace, has raised concerns about gun control and youth violence in the community. According to the ATF, these weapons are becoming increasingly prevalent among individuals who wish to evade legal restrictions. Zamora reportedly purchased ammunition specifically for the act, highlighting the tragic intersection of youth, firearms, and financial motives.
Community Reaction and Broader Implications
The community of Clovis, a city known for its family-oriented atmosphere and agricultural economy, is in shock over this violent crime. With a population of approximately 38,000, incidents of this nature are rare, prompting discussions about safety and mental health resources for at-risk youth. This case has underscored the need for greater awareness of the factors contributing to youth violence and the impact of financial strain on family dynamics.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Both Darren Munoz and Julio Zamora are being held in the Curry County Detention Center, facing serious charges that may lead to adult trials. As the legal proceedings unfold in New Mexico’s 9th Judicial District Court, the case serves as a grim reminder of the complexities surrounding familial relationships and the unsettling reality of violence among youth.
