NMSP News:
TESUQUE — The New Mexico State Police (NMSP) Investigations Bureau investigated an officer involved shooting July 24, at 509B N.M. 592 in Tesuque.
Investigations Bureau agents learned that at around 9:30 p.m., NMSP officers were dispatched to 509B N.M. 592 in Tesuque in reference to a male subject making threats to the homeowner.
The homeowner advised her daughter’s boyfriend, Galen Mason-Muller, 23, of Algodones, was driving to her home to harm himself or someone else. The homeowner also stated Mason-Muller was known to carry a firearm.
While officers were en route to the residence, the homeowner advised Mason-Muller had arrived and kicked in the door and made entry into her residence. The homeowner observed a pistol on Mason-Muller,’s hip. Once inside the residence, Mason-Muller began to chase the homeowner around the kitchen.
The homeowner was able to exit her residence safely.
NMSP officers arrived at the residence at 10:15 p.m. Two Santa Fe County deputies were already on scene and observed Mason-Muller outside the residence with a firearm in his hand. At some point during the encounter with Mason-Muller, a NMSP officer fired at least one round from their duty weapon, striking Mason-Muller. Mason-Muller was transported to a local hospital with injuries believed to be non-life threatening.
No officers were injured during the incident. The identity of the NMSP officer will not be released until interviews are completed. The officer has been placed on standard administrative leave.
This case is being investigated by the NMSP Investigations Bureau.
NMSP 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 its cases and does not determine whether an officer’s actions were justified in these types of matters. That decision rests with the district attorney’s office. This incident remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Police.