Full Breakdown
Suspect Arrested in Fatal Stabbing and Arson at Northeast Albuquerque Home
8/10/2026, 9:41:59 PM
Violent Murder and Arrest
Police identified 43-year-old Collin Terrazas as the suspect in the killing of 34-year-old Dante Conley. Officers responded to a 911 call after neighbors reported suspicious activity at Conley’s residence in the 1100 block of Arizona Street, Northeast Albuquerque. When they arrived, they found Conley deceased inside the home. SWAT officers later detained Terrazas in a busy parking lot at the Journal Center after he was located driving Conley’s black Lexus SUV.
Investigation Details
Detectives used automated license-plate readers to link a blue Ford F-150 pickup seen backing into the yard early Saturday morning to Terrazas. Surveillance footage showed the pickup at a residence in the South Valley, confirming ownership. After the homicide, Terrazas allegedly visited the Dank Smoke Shop on San Pedro Drive about three hours later, where he reportedly told an employee that he had killed someone, taken money, a gun and a vehicle, and set the house on fire. He referred to himself as “Michael the Archangel.” Police recovered the black Lexus at the Journal Center parking lot, where the SWAT team executed the arrest.
Victim and Crime Scene
Neighbors said they heard “suspicious activity” and observed the pickup truck in the yard before the homicide. Conley’s home showed signs that Terrazas attempted to ignite a fire after the stabbing; investigators reported that the suspect tried to start the blaze before fleeing in the stolen vehicle. Conley’s hands were found with blood, and his throat was reportedly slashed, according to statements from detectives.
Legal Charges
Terrazas faces an open count of murder, a charge of conspiracy to commit murder, and a charge of tampering with evidence. Authorities indicated that additional evidence, including the recovered firearm and stolen money, will be presented during the upcoming booking process at the state correctional facility.
Police Response
Albuquerque Police Department officials said SWAT officers employed non-lethal rounds to subdue Terrazas after he was observed holding an object in his hand. The department confirmed that the arrest was made without further injury to the public and that the investigation remains ongoing. Police have pledged to release additional details, including a booking photograph, once the suspect is processed.
