Alamogordo, NM – On January 29, 2023, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting in Alamogordo involving the Alamogordo Police Department.
State Police agents learned that at around 4:19 p.m., the Alamogordo Police Department was dispatched to an area near Ridgecrest Drive for reports of a man walking around armed with a gun. Officers arrived and identified Dominic Cruz De La O, 26, of Alamogordo, who was known to be wanted for multiple outstanding felony warrants.
When officers attempted to make contact with De La O, he fled, and a foot pursuit ensued. Officers attempted to utilize a taser however it was unsuccessful. A short time later De La O presented a firearm. At this point in the encounter, an officer fired at least one round from their duty weapon striking De La O.
Officers immediately rendered aid to De La O who was transported to a local hospital and then airlifted to an El Paso hospital. His current condition is unknown. No Officers were injured during this incident.
The Alamogordo Police officers involved will not be identified by the New Mexico State Police. For information on their duty status or administrative actions taken, please contact the Alamogordo Police Department.
New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau agents are working to independently determine the series of events leading to the shooting, including collecting evidence and conducting interviews. Throughout the process, investigative findings will be shared with the district attorney for their review and consideration.
The New Mexico State Police acts solely as factfinders in its cases and does not determine whether an officer’s actions were justified in these types of matters. That decision rests with the district attorney’s office. This incident remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.
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