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

KSJE to Livestream Balloon Rally Ascensions

For those unable to attend in person, KSJE will provide expansive live event coverage. Spectators can tune into KSJE’s live morning launch streaming broadcasts on Facebook and YouTube, bringing the excitement of the mass ascensions directly to viewers across the Four Corners region.
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.
Former Dallas Cowboy Shiyazh Pete visits Alma Mater: Shiprock High School

Shiyazh Pete went on from Shiprock High to play college football at New Mexico State University and the University of Kentucky before signing and training with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. He returned to Shiprock High School to share what he learned along the way and to encourage Chieftain students and athletes as they begin a new season.
Judge: SunRay Can't Move Horse Racing & Casino to Clovis

In February, San Juan County Commissioners voted to seek judicial review of the New Mexico Racing Commission’s decision to authorize Western Gaming to move its racing license to Clovis, NM. The Racing Commission’s decision, at the request of Western Gaming, would have ended San Juan County’s long heritage of horse racing at a county-owned facility.
Ground Broken for new STEAM Education Building at Navajo Prep

The new Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Facility will provide expanded space for Navajo Prep’s International Baccalaureate program and career-focused pathways.