Shane Austin Loretto, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, pleaded guilty on Mar. 27 after firing a shotgun into an occupied vehicle and injuring a passenger.
The case is significant because it involves violence with a firearm and resulted in serious injuries to the victim, highlighting concerns about public safety.
According to court documents, on March 20, 2025, Loretto fired at a car carrying John Doe as a passenger. The victim was struck in the face and neck by multiple pellets and required medical treatment. Law enforcement connected Loretto to the incident through witness statements and later found the shotgun and ammunition in a safe located inside a shed near his residence. During questioning, Loretto said he had heard about the shooting but did not know where it came from.
Loretto admitted guilt to assault with a dangerous weapon as well as using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. He faces at least five years up to life in prison when sentenced.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced the plea agreement. The investigation was conducted by the Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office with help from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting.
