ALBUQUERQUE, NM – An 18-year-old woman’s life was tragically cut short in a stabbing incident that has left her family and community in mourning. Reina Aragon was killed on Friday night at the Sandia Village Apartments in what police have described as a complex love triangle involving her ex-boyfriend and his current girlfriend.
Reina’s father, Vincent Aragon, is now grappling with the devastating loss. “I was planning a graduation, not a funeral,” he said, reflecting on the future that was cruelly taken from his daughter. He recounted the moment he learned of her death, saying, “Instead of her showing up at my front door, it was two detectives.”
According to Albuquerque police, Reina had gone to retrieve her belongings from her ex-boyfriend, Jason Clifford. Vincent had cautioned his daughter about Clifford, expressing concerns about his behavior. “I told her to just cut ties and leave it,” he said, noting that Clifford had always seemed potentially dangerous.
The situation escalated when Reina encountered Clifford and his current girlfriend, Ashlynn Battle, after work. Following a brief confrontation, the pair left but later returned to the apartment complex. Battle claimed that Reina attempted to damage their vehicle, leading to a physical altercation where Battle allegedly stabbed Reina.
The autopsy revealed that Reina suffered four stab wounds, including one that pierced her heart. Vincent Aragon is determined to share his daughter’s story, especially in light of online comments that seem to defend Battle’s actions. “It’s just not self-defense,” he insists, mourning the loss of a young woman who had her entire life ahead of her.
Reina was set to graduate from Moriarty High School and had dreams of joining the Air Force, having been involved in ROTC throughout her schooling. “She wanted to serve her country and see the world,” her father said, describing her as a warm-hearted person who lit up any room she entered.
Ashlynn Battle now faces an open count of murder, though it remains unclear if Jason Clifford will face any charges related to the incident. As the community awaits further developments, Vincent Aragon hopes to keep his daughter’s memory alive, cherishing the impact she had on those around her.