Rep. Leger Fernández Statement After Arrest of Primary Suspect in Murder of Muslim Men and Celebration of Life for Muhammad Afzaal Hussein

Statement

Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández issued this statement after the arrest of the primary suspect in the murder of Muslim men:

"Today the entire city of Española celebrates the life of Muhammad Afzaal Hussein. Over the last week, I have mourned alongside all New Mexicans the four men we lost to senseless violence: Mohammed Ahmadi, Aftab Hussein, and Naeem Hussain, while grieving with our Muslim community as they experienced terror and sorrow.

Today I am relieved law enforcement has identified and apprehended a primary suspect.

I commend the work of the Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico State Police, the FBI, the US Marshals, and ATF who worked hand-in-hand and around the clock to help protect communities terrorized by violence.

This outcome highlights the important role law enforcement working in collaboration with our beloved communities plays in keeping our families safe.

There is more work to be done and I commit myself to being part of the healing and action this moment demands and our Muslim and AAPI communities deserve."

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