Murder Charges Filed Against Military Deserters
Authorities have charged two military deserters with first-degree murder in relation to the disappearance of a roommate last month.
Raserjoiner and David DeGroat are suspected of killing military veteran Matthew McLaughlin, as reported by the Taos County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO). Allegedly, Joyner directed DeGroat to lure McLaughlin into an ambush, based on DeGroat’s confession. Joyner reportedly used an AR-style rifle to shoot McLaughlin in the chest before firing two more shots to his head.
TCSO Undersheriff Gabriel Ortiz described the situation as “shocking,” noting that while there are gut feelings while working cases, such extreme turns are unexpected. “It was kind of a shock, you know,” he explained.
KRQE News has reported that DeGroat has confessed to collaborating with Joyner to dismember McLaughlin’s body. According to TCSO, Joyner admitted to scattering the remains along U.S. Highway 64 near Tres Piedras, where evidence—believed to be McLaughlin’s bloody clothing—was discovered. Multiple bags containing body parts have been found along the highway, as noted by Ortiz.
Authorities suspect Joyner and DeGroat, who both have active arrest warrants linked to the veteran’s death, of committing the crime. Joyner reportedly had a history of conflicts with McLaughlin regarding issues such as drug use and bringing strangers to their residence.
DeGroat has stated that Joyner had previously mentioned wanting to kill McLaughlin but expressed doubt that he would actually go through with it. However, Joyner allegedly confessed to the act, claiming McLaughlin had opportunities to resolve their issues and, according to his own words, killed him without regret, saying, “It’s not a difficult decision.”
Court documents obtained by KOB4 reveal Joyner allegedly stated, “I did it, I’m fking him, and I don’t regret it.”
McLaughlin, who moved from Virginia to New Mexico in early 2025, was last seen on July 26.
In addition to the murder charge, Joyner faces various felony charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, assault with a deadly weapon, and aggravated battery.
