NMSP News:
DEMING – On April 23, 2026, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting involving the United States Marshals Service (USMS).
On Thursday, April 23, 2026, members of the United States Marshals Service (USMS) were involved in an officer involved shooting incident while attempting to apprehend fugitives who were wanted on various child sex crimes. The fugitives, identified as Joseph McDowell (44), and Cassondra Sauber (42) were wanted on nationwide extradition warrants.
McDowell was wanted on the following:
- 3 counts of child molestation
- Child exploitation
- 5 counts of possession of child pornography
- Unlawful possession of a firearm
- Battery
- Strangulation
Sauber was wanted on the following:
- Prior Child Molestation
- Child Molestation
USMS deputies observed McDowell and Sauber at 309 West Pine Street. As deputies breached the door to make entry into the residence, McDowell armed himself with a rifle and held it in a firing position as he attempted to close the door. At least one deputy discharged their duty rifle towards McDowell. McDowell then barricaded inside the residence. The deputies backed out and set up a perimeter until additional resources arrived. Callouts were given for the two to surrender peacefully. After no response, a drone and robot were sent inside the residence. McDowell and Sauber were located deceased with what appears to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds. No officers or deputies were injured during this incident.
The USMS deputies will not be identified by the New Mexico State Police. For information on their duty status or administrative actions taken, please contact the USMS.
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.