A former Bernalillo County firefighter is charged with murder after investigators say he abused his elderly father, eventually leading to his death.
Deputies spoke with 85-year-old Jose Armenta when he was hospitalized back in July.
They say he told them his son, 54-year-old Joseph Armenta, hit him in the ribs during an argument at their home in the South Valley.
A neighbor says the morning of the attack, he ran into her home for help.
Deputies say in September, Joseph Armenta's daughter called them to tell them her grandfather had died.
Deputies say an autopsy found that Jose Armenta suffered from rib fractures and lung injuries he most likely suffered during the assault.