Las Cruces Officer-Involved Shooting: 19-Year-Old Suspect Identified
In Las Cruces, a dramatic and intense incident unfolded on the evening of March 13, when police responded to reports of an armed individual near South Main Street. The situation quickly escalated, leading to an officer-involved shooting that left a 19-year-old suspect wounded and facing multiple charges.
According to the Las Cruces Police Department, officers were called to the scene after receiving a report of a man armed with a firearm. Upon arrival, law enforcement located the suspect, identified as Gabriel Padilla, who then attempted to flee. The chase was short-lived, as an officer fired multiple rounds, striking Padilla at least once. He was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he remains in serious but stable condition.
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As the investigation unfolds, authorities have revealed that Padilla is now facing a series of charges, including aggravated assault on a peace officer, negligent use of a deadly weapon, and resisting arrest. Additional charges may be pending, including unlawful concealed carry. Reports indicate that Padilla had previously expressed interest in gang affiliation and had a history of escalating behavior involving firearms.
During a press conference, Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story provided further details about the incident. Body camera footage revealed that Padilla was armed at the time of the encounter. Surveillance footage corroborated this, showing him holding a firearm as he attempted to evade officers. The shooting took place the moment Padilla's weapon became visible, leading to the officer's quick response. After the suspect was subdued, officers secured the firearm and provided immediate medical assistance.
The officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure for incidents of this nature. Identified as a lateral transfer to the department in 2021, the officer has seven years of law enforcement experience. The case has now been handed over to the Officer-Involved Incident Task Force, which will present its findings to the district attorney’s office for review.
This is an ongoing investigation, and officials continue to gather evidence. More details are expected to emerge as authorities work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the shooting. The Las Cruces community is closely watching as the legal process unfolds, with many awaiting further updates from law enforcement.
For now, Padilla remains in medical care but will be booked into the Doña Ana County Detention Center upon his release. The case serves as another reminder of the complexities and dangers law enforcement officers face daily, as well as the consequences of illegal firearm possession and use.
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