NMSP News:

The New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Investigations Bureau was requested June 25, 2024 to investigate an officer-involved shooting involving the Otero County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO).

Investigations Bureau agents learned that at around 10:45 p.m., an OCSO deputy was dispatched to conduct a welfare check on a male subject walking in the median on US Highway 70 near mile marker 240. The male subject was identified as Elijah Hadley, 17.

The deputy located Hadley and as the deputy approached, Hadley presented what appeared to be a firearm at the deputy. The deputy fired at least one round from his duty weapon striking Hadley.

Agents later learned the object that Hadley presented at the deputy was an air soft gun. Hadley was pronounced deceased on the scene by the Office of the Medical Investigator. The deputy was not injured during this incident.

The OCSO deputy will not be identified by the New Mexico State Police.

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 review.

The New Mexico State Police acts solely as a factfinder in officer involved shootings and does not determine whether an officer’s actions were justified. That decision rests with the district attorney’s office. This incident remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.