ALBUQUERQUE, NM – The tragic loss of 18-year-old Reina Aragon has left her family and community in mourning. Aragon was fatally stabbed on Friday night at the Sandia Village Apartments, an incident that has been described as a consequence of a complicated love triangle involving her ex-boyfriend and his current girlfriend.
Vincent Aragon, Reina’s father, is grappling with the devastating news. “I was planning a graduation, not a funeral,” he shared. Reina was set to graduate from Moriarty High School this Wednesday and had dreams of joining the Air Force, a dream nurtured through her participation in ROTC throughout high school.
According to Albuquerque police, the altercation began when Reina attempted to retrieve her belongings from her ex-boyfriend, Jason Clifford. Despite her father’s warnings to sever ties, Reina found herself in a confrontation with Clifford and his girlfriend, Ashlynn Battle, later that evening.
The situation escalated when the group encountered one another at the apartment complex. Battle claims that Reina approached their car aggressively, leading to a physical altercation during which Battle fatally stabbed Reina. The autopsy revealed that Reina suffered four stab wounds, one of which penetrated her heart.
Vincent Aragon is determined to share his daughter’s story, especially in light of online comments defending Battle’s actions. “It’s just not self-defense,” he said. “That girl took my daughter from me.”
Reina’s life was full of promise, and her father recalls her as a loving, warm-hearted person who aspired to serve her country and explore the world beyond Albuquerque. “She had so many plans and dreams,” Vincent said, emphasizing the irreplaceable loss of her vibrant presence.
The community is left with unanswered questions as Battle faces an open count of murder. It remains unclear if Clifford will face any charges related to the incident.
Reina’s memory lives on through those who loved her, and her father is committed to keeping her spirit alive. “She was supposed to be here,” Vincent said, reflecting on the life his daughter was unable to live.