Joseph Torrez, a mixed martial arts fighter, killed one man who broke into his home armed, and injured another.
He also scared the two other intruders, prompting them to flee, Las Cruces, New Mexico police said.
Torrez beat up and stabbed Sal Garces, 25, killing him.
Nathan Avalos, 20, was taken to a hospital on New Year’s Day with “severe” facial injuries.
The other two men, Raymond Garces, Sal’s younger brother, and 22-year-old Leonard Calvillo forced their way into the mobile home of Torrez, police told the Las Cruces Sun.
After the fight, Garces and Calvillo fled the scene, but were later arrested.
The fight was sparked after Torrez received a threatening phone call from Calvillo, a known gang member.
I’m big Eastside,“ Calvillo reportedly said over the phone, referring to a gang. ” ... I'll kill you and your family ... I will go to your house.”
The four later broke into the home, at which point the fight ensued.
One of the intruders had a crude shank, while another grabbed a knife once inside.
One of the lawyers for Torrez said that investigators plan to file charges against Avalos, who is recovering in the hospital, and have already filed charges against the other two.
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