Colfax County, NM—In April 2024, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau began investigating the murder of 79-year-old David Adams at the Tinaja rest area. Through the investigation, agents learned that Dorien Ray, of Georgia, attacked Adams, stabbing him and taking his and his wife's vehicle.
Ray was also a suspect in another incident in Colorado where he brandished a knife and stole a vehicle in Aurora.
NMSP officers located the stolen vehicle, and after pursuit, Ray was taken into custody and charged with an open count of Murder, Armed Robbery, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle.
On February 6, 2025, Dorien Ray pled guilty to one count of Murder in the second degree and one count of Armed Robbery, a second-degree felony. As part of the plea agreement,
Ray shall serve fifteen years for the murder of David Adams, with a five-year enhancement, and nine years for the Armed Robbery. Ray will also serve seven years and six months for the additional charges accumulated during the pursuit, which include Aggravated Fleeing, Aggravated Assault on a Peace Officer, Criminal Damage to Property, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
New Mexico State Police remains dedicated to ensuring the safety of New Mexicans by enforcing the law and upholding justice principles, making our communities safer.
