Whittenberg Convicted of Double Killings

Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at 9:22 AM

Judge Curtis Gurley sentenced Andrew Whittenberg to two consecutive life sentences, each with a minimum of 30 years, plus an additional 16½ years to be served consecutively, bringing his total sentence to 76½ years in prison.

From Farmington Police

July 27, 2026

Andrew Whittenberg, 36, of Farmington, was sentenced Thursday after being convicted of multiple felony charges stemming from a 2024 double homicide investigated by the Farmington Police Department.

Following a four-day jury trial, Whittenberg was found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder in the deaths of Kelly Heath, 45, and Brent Francis, 23, both of Farmington. He was also convicted of aggravated burglary, larceny of a firearm, tampering with evidence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Judge Curtis Gurley sentenced Whittenberg to two consecutive life sentences, each with a minimum of 30 years, plus an additional 16½ years to be served consecutively, bringing his total sentence to 76½ years in prison.

The investigation began on Oct. 21, 2024, when Farmington Police Department officers responded to multiple shooting scenes. Through the coordinated efforts of Farmington Police detectives, patrol officers, the San Juan County Sheriff's Office, the San Juan County District Attorney's Office, and other partner agencies, Whittenberg was quickly identified, arrested, prosecuted, and brought to justice.

The Farmington Police Department would like to thank the San Juan County District Attorney's Office, Special Prosecutor Andrea Reeb, the jury, our law enforcement partners, and everyone who played a role in the investigation and prosecution of this case. Their dedication, professionalism, and commitment helped ensure justice for the victims, their families, and our community.

“This was a very traumatic case for our community. While this will not bring Kelly and Brent back, it does provide their families with a measure of justice. For that, we are grateful,” said Chief Steve Hebbe.

More from Local News

Boil Water Advisory Issued for Lower Valley Water Users

The advisory only applies to the 8683 users served by the Lower Valley Water Users Association Water System and did not extend to any of the other surrounding water systems or communities. New Mexico Drinking Water Regulations require Lower Valley Water Users Association Water to notify their water system consumers of this finding as soon as practical but no later than 24 hours after the system is notified of the confirmation of the violation.
Woman's Husband Arrested for Kirtland Killing

Through the course of the investigation, detectives discovered that Lauren Patterson’s husband, Jess Patterson, had previously resided in California and had been arrested at least 6 times for domestic violence in that state and had been arrested in July 2026 in New Mexico for battering Ms. Patterson. An autopsy revealed Ms. Patterson suffered multiple broken bones, bruising, and internal injuries.
Farmington to host Public Meeting on Data Centers

The meeting will be held from 6=8 p.m. on Wednesday, October, 21, 2026. Participants are encouraged to submit questions ahead of time via an online submission form at farmingtonnm.gov/data-center. City staff will organize these inputs to ensure the most frequently asked questions are directly addressed during the main presentation.
APS Extends Life of Four Corners Power Plant

Arizona Public Service (APS) has announced it's decision to extend the operation of the Four Corners Power Plant (FCPP) beyond 2031. Navajo Transitional Energy Company's Navajo Mine provides the necessary coal for the operation of the plant and is positioned to meet the needs of FCPP well into the future.
Three Die in Newcomb area Flood

Two adults and a juvenile were found to have drowned and were pronounced deceased. The incident remains under investigation.
Assault Suspect Fatally Shot in Kirtland

Deputies made multiple commands to stop and drop the knife, however, the suspect ignored the commands and continued moving towards the deputies with the knife. A deputy discharged his sidearm, striking the suspect. Immediate life-saving aid was rendered to the suspect, but he ultimately died at the scene. The Farmington Police Department is leading the investigation.