New Mexico State Police Officer Shot at During Attempted Traffic Stop

Photo by2nd Life Media

On August 19, 2024, at approximately 7:32 p.m. a New Mexico State Police officer in District 10 Farmington, was traveling east on Pinon Hills when he observed a black Chrysler traveling west at a high rate of speed. The officer initiated a traffic stop, and as he was maneuvering to stop, the driver of the Chrysler 300 exited the vehicle armed with an AR-15-style rifle, per a press release from the New Mexico State Police.

The suspect, later identified as Fernando Leon Silva (40) fired at least 50 rounds in the direction of the officer, striking the officer's unit as the officer retreated to ensure his safety. The officer made a U-turn and attempted to pursue the suspect; however, his unit became disabled during the chase.

The officer lost visual contact with the suspect's vehicle, which continued to head west on Pinon Hills and 30th. The New Mexico State Police are actively investigating the incident and are working to locate the suspect.

"Our officers face unpredictable dangers every day, and last night’s events in Farmington are yet another sobering reminder of that reality. We are grateful no lives were lost, and no one was injured. We are determined to locate and apprehend Silva. The safety of the public and our officers is our top priority, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring this dangerous individual to justice,” said Troy Weisler, Chief of the New Mexico State Police.

Charges:

Count 1 Murder in the second degree – attempt

Count 2 aggravated assault upon a peace officer (with a deadly weapon)

Count 3 Shooting at or from a motor vehicle (no great bodily harm)

Count 4 Aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer

Count 5 Aggravated fleeing a law enforcement officer

UPDATE: Suspect Captured

Fernando Leon Silva was captured as the suspect involved in the August 19th shooting at a New Mexico State Police officer in Farmington, has been apprehended. Thanks to the swift and coordinated efforts of the San Juan County Sheriff's Office, the United States Marshals Service, and the New Mexico State Police, Silva is now in custody.

Per a release from the New Mexico State Police, "we are relieved that no one was injured in this dangerous incident. Thank you to our dedicated officers and all partner agencies involved for their hard work in ensuring the safety of our community."