NMSP NEWS

On July 7, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to investigate an officer involved shooting in Tesuque, NM involving the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office (SFCSO). 

Investigators learned that at approximately 7:59 a.m., SFCSO responded to a domestic between a male and female at #1 Entrada Capulin in Tesuque. Upon arrival, a SFCSO deputy met with a family member who told the Deputy the female was being stabbed by the male, later identified as Edward Daniel Santana (45) of Santa Fe.

As SFCSO deputies approached the residence, they observed the female, later identified as Delia Cervantes (67) of Tesuque, lying on a patio bench outside the residence. Deputies carried Cervantes to safe location near Bishops Lodge Road where emergency medical personnel rendered aid. Shortly after, a New Mexico State Police officer arrived on scene to assist. The State Police officer and deputies observed Santana standing on the patio holding a fence post. Santana began to walk towards the officers in an aggressive manner holding the fence post. Officers gave Santana numerous verbal commands. Santana ignored the commands and continued to walk aggressively towards the officers. A SFCSO deputy deployed his department issued taser and shortly afterwards another SFCSO deputy discharged his department issued firearm towards Santana at least once, striking him.

Officers immediately rendered aid to Santana. Santana succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Office of Medical Investigator. Cervantes was transported by emergency medical personnel to an area hospital in Santa Fe, NM, where she later succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased. 

The identification of the deputies involved will not be released until interviews are completed. No officers were injured during the incident. For information about the initial call and administrative actions of the deputies, please contact the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. This investigation remains active and is being led by the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau. Upon completion of the investigation, this case will be given to the appropriate district attorney’s office for review.  

When more information is available, New Mexico State Police will send out an additional press release.