ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – A trial has concluded for Matthew Chavez, who was previously convicted of killing army veteran Tyler Lackey eight years ago. On Monday, the verdict of the case’s second trial was announced.
2016 Murder:
During an attempted robbery, Chavez shot and killed Lackey at an ATM near Gibson and Yale. A jury found Chavez guilty of second-degree murder and other charges. He was sentenced to a maximum of 23.5 years in prison.
Appeal:
The attorneys for Chavez claimed the jury was not instructed on the option of voluntary manslaughter, which would have taken into account possible self-defense. At the original trial, the defense argued that Lackey had a gun and was trying to stop the robbery.
New Trial:
A new trial began on April 29, 2024. On May 6, it was determined that Chavez was not guilty of second-degree murder or voluntary manslaughter. The judge said she will release him on his own recognizance.
