EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Las Cruces Police are investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred early Sunday morning along Valley Drive, prompting a large police presence and road impacts in the area.
According to police, the initial call came in around 7:21 a.m. Sunday. Preliminary information indicates an officer working approved off-duty employment at Walmart, 1550 S. Valley Drive, was flagged down regarding a reported bicycle theft.
Police say the officer located the suspect and attempted to detain him when the suspect fired at least one round at the officer.
The officer returned fire, and the suspect fled on foot.
Additional officers responded and attempted to establish a perimeter.
During that response, police say additional exchanges of gunfire occurred, and the suspect was later pronounced deceased at the scene.
Authorities say the incident involved multiple scenes surrounding Valley Drive, all of which were secured by responding officers.
Walmart and nearby businesses may be impacted as the investigation continues.
No additional information has been released at this time.
Police say a news conference is expected once more details are confirmed.
The Officer-Involved Incident Task Force, which includes investigators from New Mexico State Police, Las Cruces Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State University Police, is handling the investigation.
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