TAOS, N.M. — A confession has surfaced in a chilling homicide case involving the death of 25-year-old Matthew McLaughlin, following an interview with his former military comrade, Rainor Joiner. Joiner admitted to killing McLaughlin in late July, a tragic incident stemming from what he described as an attempt to help his friend overcome personal struggles.
According to Joiner, he brought McLaughlin to New Mexico in hopes of assisting him in turning his life around, citing McLaughlin’s issues with substance use and his choice to associate with unfamiliar individuals. Joiner claimed that despite his best efforts, McLaughlin did not change his behavior, leading to his frustrations and ultimatum regarding McLaughlin’s lifestyle choices.
During the interrogation, Joiner recounted a particular moment where an unspecified comment from McLaughlin triggered an overwhelming outburst of anger. He described his emotional state in stark terms, claiming he was so enraged that it led him to pull the trigger. “I just lost it,” he reportedly told deputies. After the shooting on July 25, Joiner detailed a macabre sequence of events where he dismembered McLaughlin’s body over several days, ultimately disposing of the remains near U.S. Highway 64.
Authorities, however, have expressed skepticism regarding Joiner’s assertion that the act was not premeditated, suggesting that evidence collected during the investigation could imply a deeper level of planning.
In the wake of Joiner’s admission, another individual involved in the case, David Degroat, who is facing charges as a co-conspirator, was also interviewed by law enforcement. Degroat provided a written statement that highlighted his attempts to persuade Joiner against the murder, alleging that Joiner threatened him if he did not comply with his plans.
A deputy involved in the case remarked on the circumstances, stating that the actions taken by Joiner appeared to be intentional and calculated, contradicting his claims of impulsiveness.
This case continues to unfold as investigators gather further evidence, raising questions about accountability and the motivations behind such a tragic turn of events among those who once served together.