NMSP News:

June 9, 2024, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting involving the Española Police Department (EPD). 

Investigations Bureau agents learned that at around 6:15 p.m., an EPD officer located a stolen Jeep SUV at a Walgreens parking lot. As the EPD officer approached the stolen Jeep, the passenger door opened, and a male fled from the vehicle. The officer began giving verbal commands to the driver, who was identified as Jeffrey Martinez (28). At some point during the encounter, the officer discharged their duty weapon, striking Martinez. 

Officers rendered aid until paramedics arrived on scene and transported Martinez to an area hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. No officers were injured during this incident.

The EPD officers will not be identified by the New Mexico State Police. For information on their duty status or administrative actions taken, please contact the Espanola 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 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.