Johnny C. Black
ESPANOLA – A New Mexico State Police officer attempted to stop a vehicle around 6 p.m. Tuesday that was occupied by a male and a female for a traffic violation on Riverside Drive in Espanola.
The vehicle immediately began to flee from the officer and a pursuit ensued. Moments into the pursuit the male driver began firing gunshots at the State Police officer through the sunroof of the vehicle.
In addition to shooting from the sunroof, the suspect drove into oncoming traffic and then began passing on blind corners and in no passing zones. Concerned for the public’s safety, the pursuing officer made the decision to back off from the pursuit. As additional officers arrived, they were able to locate the suspect vehicle abandoned behind Holy Cross Church. The suspect had fled the area. The 20-year-old female passenger was unharmed in the incident and will not be named as she is not facing any charges.
Through extensive investigation, State Police agents were able to identify the male driver as Johnny C. Black, 32, of Pojoaque. Agents learned that Black also is the primary suspect in a June 7, 2018 incident, in which he shot at a Rio Arriba County deputy. Black has active and outstanding warrants for Breaking and Entering and Burglary in Rio Arriba County.
New Mexico State Police has issued an arrest warrant for Black. He is wanted for assault with intent to commit a violent felony on a police officer, a 2nd degree felony; shooting from a motor vehicle, a 4th degree felony and aggravated fleeing from a police officer.
Black is 5’10” tall, weighing 150 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. He has tattoos on his right leg, left shoulder, right shoulder and the left side of his neck. He may be driving a stolen white Kia with New Mexico license plate ACXB97. Black is to be considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If you see or know where Black is contact the New Mexico State Police at 505.753.2277 and speak with Agent Bennett or dial 911.
This case is actively being investigated with no additional information available at this time. Further developments will be provided when available.
