Fallen suspect’s brother opens up about case

In the early hours of July 24, Alvin Sylversmythe was shot and killed by Gallup Police Department officer(s). Sylversmythe, 30, was reportedly intoxicated and charged at officers while wielding two knives.

The case is currently in the hands of New Mexico State Police, but as of press time, officials have yet to release the name of the officer – or officers – who fired the deadly shot.

NMSP Sgt. Chad Pierce said in an email, dated Aug. 11, that the reason the names of the officers involved in the shooting haven’t been released “is due to the investigative process.”

“Please remember no two investigations are the same as some...

Damage costs are significant

Fire ravaged an east side motel Aug. 9, forcing occupants to take shelter at a nearby gymnasium, officials said. The fire is being investigated by the Gallup Fire Department and Gallup Police Department.

The cause of the fire at the Road Runner Motel, 3012 E. Hwy 66, remains under investigation. There were no injuries reported. Deputy Fire Chief Jesus Morales said the estimated cost of fire damage is significant.

Morales said a call came into dispatch at around 8:15 pm regarding a structure fire at a hotel near Indian Hills.

“It was a general alarm call,” Morales said. “We got there within minutes.”

Morales said the fire initially broke out in...

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Aug. 8, U.S. Senators Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich announced that New Mexico State University will receive more than $4.4 million to support research on pecan genetics and breeding that will help New Mexico pecan farmers improve the sustainability and profitability of their crops.

The funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture Specialty Crop Research Initiative, authorized by the 2014 Farm Bill, which Udall and Heinrich supported.

The funded research will allow for the development of genetic tools that will help farmers select varieties of trees that will thrive in the varying growing...

Indigenous cultures showcase dance, ornate regalia

A beloved local event, held at Red Rock Park, brings in, from near and far, visitors and locals, bull riders, ropers and wrestlers, dancers, drummers, artists, two parades, and even its own celebrated queen.

A $10 all-access admission ($5 for kids) gets you five days of traditional celebration, as well as romping, riding, festive fun, beginning with a morning junior rodeo on Wednesday, Aug. 10.

The junior rodeo is followed by the Queen’s luncheon at noon, Preview Night at 6 pm, and ladies and junior bull riding.

On Thursday, Aug. 11, the exhibit halls opens at 10 am and the Queen Contest is held. At 7 pm, there’s a...