SANTA FE, NM – A routine visit to a local Burger King turned into a harrowing ordeal for a Santa Fe family after a group of teenagers allegedly attacked a pregnant woman. The incident has left the community reeling and raised concerns over increasing juvenile crime.
Santa Fe police reported that on Wednesday morning, five minors, aged between 12 and 16, entered the fast-food restaurant and began causing disturbances. Witnesses say one of the teens even exposed himself, suggesting they might have been under the influence of substances.
When a father attempted to intervene and asked the group to cease their disruptive behavior, he was met with hostility as one of the teens hurled a cup of ice at him. The situation escalated when the pregnant mother spoke up, prompting three of the teenagers to physically assault her, inflicting injuries before fleeing the scene. Authorities suspect the group may have discarded a firearm nearby.
Police expressed concern over the rising trend of violence among younger juveniles, a shift from what was once more common among older teens. They noted an alarming increase in serious offenses committed by children as young as 11 or 12.
The injured woman was taken to a local hospital with an eye injury. Authorities fear that while physical wounds may heal, the emotional scars could have a more lasting impact.
The teens involved in the attack are now facing numerous charges. Three of them have prior records, including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, drug offenses, and making bomb threats at schools. This pattern of behavior has sparked a debate over the need for reform in the juvenile justice system.
Officials stress the importance of rehabilitation over incarceration but acknowledge the challenges in effectively addressing such behaviors. They call for consequences that deter future offenses, hoping to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
The five juveniles have been charged with battery, unlawful carrying of a firearm by a minor, and disorderly conduct. Two of the young offenders were taken to the San Juan County Juvenile Detention Facility.