EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A Las Cruces man is dead after he was allegedly involved in an officer-involved shooting this past Monday, Jan. 6, in Hobbs, New Mexico, according to New Mexico State Police (NMSP).
State Police say at around 6 p.m. on Monday, two of its officers attempted a traffic stop near 209 Marland St. in Hobbs on a vehicle driven by Jesus Rubio, 28, from Las Cruces.
Hobbs is located about 240 miles northeast of El Paso.
Rubio did not initially pull over when officers activated their emergency equipment. However, he eventually pulled over and opened his door at which time, officers were instructing him to stay in the vehicle, according to State Police.
State Police say Rubio ignored the officers’ commands and exited his vehicle. He then held his right hand behind his back upon exiting the vehicle.
Officers then gave commands for Rubio to show his hands and Rubio raised his arms as if he was pointing a firearm as he walked towards the officers, according to State Police.
Both of the officers then fired at least one round from their weapons, striking Rubio. He was then transported to an area hospital where he later died as a result of his injuries.
State Police say the officers have been placed on standard administrative leave and their identities will not be released until interviews are complete.
No officers were injured during the incident and no firearm was recovered from the scene.
“New Mexico State Police act solely as factfinders in their investigation and conduct an unbiased and impartial investigation. In officer-involved shootings, NMSP thoroughly documents the scene, collects evidence, and interviews officers, subjects, and witnesses. In turn, NMSP compiles facts as detailed as possible and forwards all reports to the appropriate district attorney for their review. The New Mexico State Police does not determine whether an officer’s actions were justified, this determination rests solely with the district attorney’s office,” State Police said.
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