Two Teenagers Reported Missing from Albuquerque Group Home

The two youth left the nonsecure YDI facility on October 17 and are currently being sought by local law enforcement.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Secondary Education

Abstract geometric illustration in deep red and cream, evoking a somber sense of institutional policy and youth safety concerns. — Local law enforcement in Albuquerque are searching for two teenagers who went missing from the YDI Summer House facility on October 17. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Two teenagers, 13-year-old Andy Carrasco and 15-year-old Santino Martinez, left the YDI Summer House group home in Albuquerque on October 17. The facility, which operates as a nonsecure residential program, reported the children missing to local law enforcement.

Why it matters

The disappearance highlights ongoing concerns regarding the lack of secure treatment facilities for children in the custody of the Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD). This shortage often places youth in less restrictive settings that may not adequately prevent unauthorized departures.

As of October 23, the CYFD reports that 26 children in state custody are currently on runaway status. This comes as the state agency continues to navigate staffing and placement challenges for youth under its care.

The players

Children, Youth and Families Department (CYFD)

The New Mexico state agency responsible for child protective services and the custody of youth in state-supervised residential programs.

YDI Summer House

An Albuquerque residential program providing care for youth in a nonsecure setting.

The details

Carrasco and Martinez left the YDI Summer House by exiting through a bedroom window, with Carrasco reportedly changing his clothes before departing. Because the residential facility operates in a nonsecure setting, it is not designed to physically prevent youth from leaving the premises. This incident follows a previous event in August, where Carrasco left a psychiatric center before being located four days later.

August 2026: Carrasco leaves a psychiatric center.
October 17, 2026: Carrasco and Martinez depart the YDI group home.
October 23, 2026: CYFD confirms 26 children in custody are on runaway status.

The Home Front

This incident highlights the systemic challenges within New Mexico's residential care infrastructure as the state balances placement needs for youth. Agencies often struggle to align facility security levels with the specific treatment requirements of children in their custody.

Families in the area should remain aware of local missing person reports provided by law enforcement. If you see individuals matching descriptions from official bulletins, contact the Albuquerque police immediately rather than attempting to intervene.

The takeaway

The disappearance of these youth serves as a reminder to monitor local safety bulletins regarding runaway status. Residents can check for official updates through local police department alerts to stay informed on missing youth in the community.