SHE WAS ONLY 24 — YOUNG COACH ALEXIA VERDUGO SIGALA DIES AFTER SHOOTING INVOLVING HER BROTHER

A 24-year-old Santa Fe woman has died after suffering a gunshot wound in what was initially reported as an accidental shooting — but police are now investigating her death as a homicide.

Alexia Verdugo Sigala was found suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso at a residence near Rufina Street and Atocha Road in Santa Fe, New Mexico, shortly before 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 5.

Emergency crews rushed her to a local hospital before she was airlifted to the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque.

Despite efforts to save her, Alexia later died from her injuries.

WHAT HAPPENED INSIDE THE HOME?

When Santa Fe police first responded, the incident was reported as an “accidental” shooting.

According to investigators, Alexia’s adult brother had allegedly discharged a rifle unintentionally, striking her in the torso.

Detectives interviewed the brother and seized the firearm as evidence.

But after Alexia died, the investigation took a more serious turn.

Santa Fe Police announced that detectives were investigating her death as a homicide.

Authorities have not publicly accused the brother of intentionally shooting Alexia, and no formal charges had been announced in the latest police update. Detectives are working with the First Judicial District Attorney’s Office to determine what charges, if any, are appropriate.

Police also said there is no other suspect at large and no ongoing threat to the public.

A LOSS FELT AT CAPITAL HIGH SCHOOL

Alexia’s death has also devastated the Capital High School community, where she was involved with the school’s athletic programs.

She was associated with the school’s volleyball and basketball programs, and local reports identified her as a coach.

Her death has left students, athletes, colleagues and family members facing a loss that came without warning.

At just 24 years old, Alexia had already become part of a community that knew her through sports and coaching.

Now that same community is mourning her.

THE INVESTIGATION CONTINUES

For Alexia’s family, the questions surrounding her death are only beginning.

What exactly happened inside the home that afternoon?

Was the rifle discharged accidentally, as the initial report indicated?

And why are detectives now treating the death as a homicide?

Those questions remain unanswered as investigators work with prosecutors to determine the next steps.

For now, police say the case remains actively under investigation, and the brother has not been formally charged.

Alexia Verdugo Sigala was only 24.

A young woman who spent her time around athletes and students is now being remembered by the people who knew her — while her family waits for answers about how a tragic afternoon ended with her life being lost.