Jaquari Hezakiyah Porter, 24, of Georgia, has been charged with murder in Indian Country following a fatal shooting that occurred at a New Mexico gas station, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced on March 14.
The charges stem from an incident on February 2, 2025, at the Sky City Travel Center located on the Acoma Pueblo in Cibola County. Surveillance footage revealed Porter approaching the victim, a Navajo Nation member, from behind as she was pumping gas into her vehicle. According to court documents, Porter then raised a pistol and fired a shot into her back, causing her to collapse. Video footage also captured Porter firing a second shot at the victim while she was on the ground, after which he searched her body, entered her vehicle, and fled the scene.
Authorities reported that Porter led a pursuit west on Interstate 40, where Cibola County sheriff’s deputies and Grants police officers chased him. During the chase, Porter fired at the officers, who returned fire, striking him twice before apprehending him. A Glock 9 mm pistol was recovered from Porter, and expended shell casings matching those found at the crime scene were also collected.
A witness reported seeing the shooting and hearing two gunshots. Porter was transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital for treatment after being taken into custody and remains in federal custody.
If convicted, Porter faces a potential life sentence in prison.
