Official found dead

Tucumcari City Commissioner John Mihm was found dead early Monday morning at his home.

At 10 a.m., police dispatchers received a call from employees at Buena Vista Labs stating that Mihm had not come to work, Deputy Police Chief Pete Rivera said.

Rivera said officers were dispatched to Mihm's residence on the 2500 block of South Fifth Street in where they attempted to make contact. Rivera said at 10:15 a.m., officers located Mihm's body in his vehicle in the garage next to the residence.

Rivera said the cause of death is unknown. An autopsy has been ordered, and New Mexico State Police are investigating.

"John Mihm was a great friend and dedicated member of the City Commission," said Mayor Ruth Ann Litchfield. "I am saddened to learn that my friend and colleague has passed away."

Litchfield said Mihm was dedicated to helping Tucumcari prosper, working on several boards to improve the future of the city. She said she would have dinner with Mihm after every meeting.

"I want to convey my condolences to John Mihm's family for their loss," said Mayor Pro-Tem Robert Lumpkin, adding that Mihm worked hard to be a positive voice for District 5 and the city.

"The city and the residents of District 5 lost a proud and strong voice," said Ralph Moya, District 1 commissioner.

Moya said Mihm was conscientious, well-informed on issues, and always positive in the development of the city.

"I was shocked when I heard the news of John's passing," said Amy Gutierrez, District 2 commissioner.

Gutierrez said John's passion to make Tucumcari better was evident in his work as a commissioner. She said John's passing is a tremendous loss for the community.

"John was a good friend, I will miss him," Gutierrez said.

"John Mihm was an outstanding citizen, a good friend, and he did a lot for the city of Tucumcari," said City Manager Jared Langenegger.

Langenegger said Mihm worked with the Greater Tucumcari Economic Development Corp., Route 66 Museum and several other boards, adding that Mihm was dedicated to bringing industry into the city.