Zuni Man Charged for Violent Assault

ALBUQUERQUE - A Zuni man is facing federal charges for allegedly attacking another man with a machete.

According to court documents, on March 26, 2026, an argument broke out between Ronnie Shack, 25, an enrolled member of the Zuni Tribe, and another individual at Shack's residence in Zuni, New Mexico. As the victim left the residence, Shack allegedly followed him and attacked him with a machete, slashing his back and pursuing him down the street. Neighbors called 911 and the victim was transported to a local hospital before being transferred to a regional hospital for treatment of his injuries.

Shack is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault causing serious bodily injury in Indian country. He will remain on conditions of release pending trial which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted, Shack faces up to 20 years in prison.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.

The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth Teleky is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.