Portales Police Name Suspect in Portales Homicide

The Portales Police Department has identified Zachary Contreras, 20, as the suspect in the homicide of Jesus Ornelas. The incident resulted in the death of Ornelas, 46, during the weekend of October 24, 2026. Residents of the 600 block of South Avenue B are now aware of the individual linked to the fatal confrontation.

The violent incident occurred on the night of Saturday, October 24, 2026. Ornelas was found dead in the 600 block of South Avenue B. Police detectives subsequently located Contreras. He is currently in police custody, though he is being held for unrelated charges at this time. The department stated that formal charges specifically for the homicide are pending and will be filed soon.

The Portales Police Department credited the Major Crimes Unit of the Ninth Judicial District for its role in the investigation. Detectives and officers assigned to the case worked to identify the suspect. The investigation remains active as authorities gather additional evidence.

Police have asked the public to assist with the ongoing probe. Anyone with video footage or additional information about the events on South Avenue B should contact the Portales Police Department Investigations Division. The department provided the direct line 575-356-4404 for those with details to share.