Shiprock Man Charged With Second-Degree Murder in Woman’s Death

Shiprock Resident Charged After Woman Found Dead

On November 15, 2025, at a residence in Shiprock, New Mexico, a woman was beaten to death following a day of drinking, according to court documents.

Law enforcement officers responded to the residence in Shiprock, where they found the woman dead outside the home. Officers observed signs of trauma and abuse on the victim when they arrived at the scene.

Details of the Alleged Offense

Court documents state that 21-year-old Harlan Joe, a man from Shiprock, New Mexico, beat the woman to death on November 15, 2025. The incident occurred after a day of drinking at the residence in Shiprock.

After officers arrived and discovered the woman’s body outside the residence, they detained Joe. During an interview with law enforcement, Joe stated that he knew what he was doing and that it was wrong, according to the documents.

Charges and Custody Status

Authorities have charged Harlan Joe with second-degree murder in connection with the woman’s death in Shiprock. The charge follows the discovery of the victim with visible signs of trauma and abuse outside the residence where the incident occurred.

Officials have confirmed that Joe will remain in custody while he awaits trial on the second-degree murder charge. A trial date has not yet been set.

Ongoing Judicial Process

The case against Joe is proceeding through the judicial system. At this time, the confirmed developments include the filing of a second-degree murder charge, his continued detention pending trial, and the absence of a scheduled trial date.

All information regarding the incident, the alleged actions of Joe, and the current status of the case is based on court documents and statements from law enforcement officers involved in the response and subsequent investigation in Shiprock, New Mexico.