Five Juveniles Arrested After Violent Unprovoked Attack on Family at Santa Fe Burger King
Santa Fe, NM – July 3, 2025 — A disturbing and violent attack at a Burger King in Santa Fe has left a family shaken and a community outraged. On the morning of July 2, at approximately 9:00 a.m., officers from the Santa Fe Police Department (SFPD) responded to a report of an unprovoked assault at the Burger King located at 3478 Zafarano Drive. The incident, which authorities have described as “vicious and senseless,” resulted in the arrest of five juveniles, who are now facing multiple serious charges.
📍 The Incident
According to initial reports from SFPD, a local family was dining inside the restaurant when they were suddenly approached and attacked by a group of five juveniles, all believed to be under the age of 17. Surveillance footage and eyewitness accounts indicate the suspects entered the establishment in a disruptive manner and quickly began hurling verbal threats at the family before physically assaulting them.
The victims include two adults and a teenage girl. Witnesses say the attackers targeted the family without provocation, throwing food, kicking over furniture, and striking one of the adult family members multiple times before fleeing the scene. Restaurant employees immediately called 911, and police arrived within minutes.
👮 Police Response and Arrests
SFPD officers conducted a swift investigation, canvassing the area and reviewing surveillance footage from the restaurant and neighboring businesses. Within hours, they were able to identify and apprehend all five suspects. Police confirmed that the juveniles were taken into custody at various locations across Santa Fe later that same day.
According to Lieutenant Rachel Montoya, spokesperson for SFPD, the suspects have been charged with multiple offenses, including:
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Aggravated battery
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Conspiracy to commit assault
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Disorderly conduct
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Destruction of property
Additional charges may be filed pending further investigation, especially in light of the traumatic effect the incident had on the family and bystanders.
👨👩👧 Victims and Community Impact
The family involved in the attack has not been publicly identified. They sustained minor physical injuries but are said to be emotionally shaken by the event. A statement released by a family member described the ordeal as “terrifying,” adding that they were simply trying to enjoy a morning meal together.
Local residents have voiced outrage over the brazenness of the attack and the apparent lack of remorse shown by the assailants.
“It’s just horrifying to know something like this can happen in broad daylight at a family restaurant,” said Sandra Ortiz, a nearby shopper who witnessed the police response. “You expect to feel safe, especially in a place like this.”
🏛️ Legal Proceedings and Juvenile Justice
The arrested juveniles are currently being held at a juvenile detention facility, and their cases will be reviewed by the New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department in conjunction with the district attorney’s office. A court date has not yet been set.
Because the suspects are minors, their identities have not been released. However, authorities have indicated they are examining possible connections to prior incidents of group-related disturbances in the area.
📢 Official Statement
The management of the Burger King location issued a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement and concern for the affected family:
“We are deeply disturbed by this incident and are fully cooperating with authorities. The safety and well-being of our guests and team members are our highest priorities.”
SFPD has also encouraged any witnesses or individuals with additional information about the incident to come forward. A dedicated tip line has been established as part of the ongoing investigation.
As Santa Fe residents absorb the shock of this alarming event, many are calling for stronger community programs focused on juvenile intervention, conflict resolution, and youth accountability. The Santa Fe Police Department continues to investigate the full circumstances of the attack and has vowed to bring justice to those impacted.