New Mexico State Police Investigating Officer Involved Shooting in Roswell

Photo byNMSP

In a release from the New Mexico State Police they report that on October 10, 2024, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested by the Roswell Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting (OIS) involving a Roswell Police Department officer.

State Police agents learned that at approximately 11:34 a.m., the Chaves County Metro Narcotics Task Force learned that Jason Torres, 41 was in possession of illegal narcotics and firearms.

The task force agents attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle he was operating, which he stopped momentarily, and a pursuit began. The pursuit ended when Torres fled on foot armed with a rifle. At the intersection of South Main Street and Roswell Relief Route, one task force officer with the Roswell Police Department fired at least one shot, striking Torres. Aid was rendered to Torres, who succumbed to his injuries. No law enforcement officers were injured.

While responding to the incident, a Chaves County Sheriff’s deputy was involved in a crash with a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) at the intersection of Southeast Main Street and Brasher. The deputy was treated for minor injuries. The CMV driver was not injured. NMSP Uniform Bureau is investigating the crash.

The name of the officer involved will not be released by the State Police. Contact the Roswell Police Department for information on the officer's name, their duty status, and any administrative actions taken. The New Mexico State Police act solely as factfinders in their investigations 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, the agency compiles facts as detailed as possible and forwards all reports and evidence to the appropriate district attorney for further review.

The New Mexico State Police does not determine whether an officer's actions were justified. This determination rests solely with the district attorney reviewing the investigation.