“Every story deserves to be told with clarity, compassion, and truth.” — Jessica Garate
Jessica Garate is an American journalist and the main evening anchor at KRQE News 13 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, born in 1978 in Texas. She has worked in Midland, Texas, and has been with KRQE for nearly two decades. In 2025, she is trending for her coverage of New Mexico Crime Files, including high‑profile cases such as the Mariah Ferry kidnapping and the conviction of attorney Carlos Fierro. Her challenges include reporting on sensitive crime stories, balancing newsroom leadership with family life, and maintaining trust in a polarized media environment.
Timeline Overview
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1978 | Born in Texas, USA |
| 1990s | Attended University of Wyoming, earned B.A. in Broadcast Journalism |
| Early 2000s | Reporter/anchor at KWES‑TV Midland, Texas |
| 2004 | Joined KRQE News 13 in Albuquerque, New Mexico |
| 2010s | Became main evening anchor (5:30 p.m. & 10 p.m.) |
| 2020s | Co‑hosted New Mexico Crime Files with Dean Staley |
| 2025 | Trending for coverage of Mariah Ferry kidnapping case and Carlos Fierro conviction |
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jessica Garate |
| Birthdate | 1978 |
| Birthplace | Texas, USA |
| Age | 47 (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.68 m) |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Education | University of Wyoming – B.A. Broadcast Journalism |
| Profession | Journalist, Anchor |
| Employer | KRQE News 13 |
| Known For | Evening anchor, New Mexico Crime Files |
| Spouse | Married (husband’s name not publicly disclosed) |
| Children | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated $500,000–$1 million |
Early Life & Education
Jessica Garate was born in Texas in 1978 and raised in a supportive family environment. Her parents encouraged her pursuit of education and journalism, instilling resilience and curiosity.
She attended the University of Wyoming, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism. During her studies, she gained practical experience in reporting and anchoring, preparing her for a career in television news.

Career Background
KWES‑TV Midland, Texas Garate began her career at KWES‑TV in Midland, working as a reporter and anchor. She covered local politics, community issues, and breaking news.
KRQE News 13 Albuquerque In 2004, Garate joined KRQE News 13 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. She quickly rose to become the main evening anchor, leading the 5:30 p.m. and 10 p.m. newscasts.
New Mexico Crime Files Garate co‑hosts New Mexico Crime Files with Dean Staley, covering high‑profile crime stories across the state. Her reporting blends empathy with investigative rigor, making her a trusted voice in crime journalism.

Trending News (2025)
- Mariah Ferry Kidnapping Case: In July 2025, Garate reported on the teenage mastermind behind a kidnapping and murder case, highlighting the disturbing details of torture and violence.
- Carlos Fierro Conviction: In October 2025, she covered the conviction of high‑profile DWI lawyer Carlos Fierro in a fatal hit‑and‑run case.
- Weather Alerts: As evening anchor, she also delivers critical weather updates, including winter storm advisories across New Mexico.
Challenges & Achievements
Challenges
- Sensitive Crime Reporting: Covering gruesome cases requires balancing empathy with journalistic integrity.
- Media Trust: Navigating public skepticism in a polarized media environment.
- Work‑Life Balance: Managing newsroom leadership while raising a family.
Achievements
- Nearly two decades at KRQE News 13.
- Co‑host of New Mexico Crime Files, a trusted crime reporting program.
- Recognized for professionalism and community engagement.
- Built a career across Texas and New Mexico.
Family & Parents
Jessica Garate was born into a supportive family in Texas. Her parents encouraged her pursuit of education and journalism, instilling resilience and curiosity. While she keeps their identities private, she often credits them with shaping her career path.
Garate is married, though she keeps her husband’s identity private. She occasionally shares glimpses of her family life, emphasizing the importance of balance between career and home.
Salary & Net Worth
- Salary: Estimated $70,000–$120,000 annually as KRQE anchor.
- Net Worth: Approximately $500,000–$1 million.
Legacy
Jessica Garate’s legacy lies in her ability to blend crime reporting with community trust. From Midland to Albuquerque, she has built a career defined by resilience, accuracy, and empathy.
Her story in 2025 reflects both triumph and challenge: professional recognition alongside the difficulties of covering sensitive crime stories. As she continues to anchor KRQE’s evening newscasts, Garate remains a trusted figure in New Mexico journalism.









