In a chilling case out of New Mexico, two teenagers face trial amidst allegations of plotting a cold-blooded murder for inheritance gain. According to prosecutors, these young men conspired to eliminate one teenager’s parents, leaving a shocking trail of betrayal and violence.
Darren Munoz and Julio Zamora, both only 19, stand accused of the brutal slayings of Munoz’s father, 58-year-old Oscar Steve Munoz, and stepmother, 71-year-old Dina Munoz. Both teenagers now have their trial dates set in connection with the first-degree murder charges. The grim discovery unfolded after authorities responded to a burglary call on December 15, 2025, at a residence in Clovis, New Mexico, where the Munoz couple were tragically found dead.
When officers arrived at the scene, they were met by Darren Munoz, who reportedly insisted that “everything was fine,” yet suspiciously delayed admitting police into the home.
Upon delving into Darren Munoz’s digital communications, investigators uncovered a sinister dialogue allegedly exchanged between Munoz and Zamora leading up to the murders. Disturbingly, the records also revealed “video snaps” sent in the aftermath, suggesting a chilling trophy-like documentation of their alleged deeds.
A search of Darren Munoz’s phone records uncovered an alleged text conversation between Darren Munoz and Zamora leading up to the alleged murder, including “video snaps” after it was carried out.
Police said that Zamora was apprehended at his home the same day. During an interview with police after receiving his Miranda rights, he allegedly said that “Darren had asked and solicited him to kill” his parents. Zamora had a Glock on him when he was arrested and reportedly admitted to police that it was the gun used in the crime.
Both teenagers remain in custody at the Curry County Jail, where they are being held without bond. Darren Munoz was charged with two counts of first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and criminal solicitation to commit murder; his trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 25, 2027. He is due in court on Jan. 7, 2027.
Zamora was charged with two counts of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder. His trial is scheduled for June 21, 2027. He has a court date scheduled for Dec. 14.
The post Teen allegedly hired by his friend to kill his parents for large inheritance once they were ‘out of the picture’ will have to face a jury first appeared on Law & Crime.