APD detectives have made a breakthrough in a murder case from 2020, charging Nathan Henson for the shooting death of Nehemiah Lovato at the Valencia Court Apartments. Henson, currently incarcerated in Oklahoma, is accused of fatally shooting Lovato on October 25, 2020, at the apartment complex located at 200 Valencia Dr., S.E.
According to surveillance video, Henson was seen pulling out a firearm and pointing it at Lovato, while another individual grabbed Lovato's backpack. A struggle ensued, and during the scuffle, a single shot was fired, striking Lovato and causing him to fall to the ground. Despite the quick response from the police, Lovato succumbed to his injuries.
Detectives were able to identify Henson through a comparison of images in the video surveillance footage from the night of the shooting and an incident on September 17, 2020, at the same apartment complex, where Henson was stabbed. This led them to further identify other individuals involved in the shooting.
Henson had already been arrested on a felony charge in November 2023 in Oklahoma and was wanted for absconding from parole in New Mexico for a previous felony in 2016. He is currently awaiting extradition to New Mexico.
Now, Henson is facing new charges, including First Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery, and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
The authorities have expressed their satisfaction with the progress made in this case. Detective Jane Thompson, who played a crucial role in the investigation, stated, "We are relieved to finally bring some closure to the family of Nehemiah Lovato. Our team has worked tirelessly to gather evidence and identify the individuals involved in this tragic incident. Today, we can say with confidence that justice will be served."
The arrest and charges against Henson serve as a reminder of the dedication and persistence of law enforcement agencies in resolving unsolved cases. The Albuquerque Police Department remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community by bringing perpetrators of violent crimes to justice.
The trial for Nathan Henson is expected to commence in the coming months, where the evidence against him will be presented in court, and a verdict will be reached.
