Los Alamos Reporter

NMSP Investigates Officer-Involved Shooting In Chimayó Involving Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office

NMSP NEWS RELEASE

On June 25,2026, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested to investigate an officer-involved shooting involving the Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office.

Agents learned on June 25, 2026, at approximately 7:01 p.m., Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office (RASO) deputies responded to 748 State Road 76 in Chimayó in reference to a domestic disturbance.

The reporting party advised deputies that a male, identified as 60-year-old Derek Torres, was threatening to kill her and himself. The female reported that Torres was highly intoxicated and had physically assaulted her. While deputies were en route to the residence, the female reported Torres was actively chasing her with a knife and stated he intended to kill himself when law enforcement arrived.

Upon arrival, deputies encountered Torres and, for reasons still under investigation, discharged their duty weapons, striking him. After the shooting, Torres barricaded himself inside the residence and disregarded commands to exit. Deputies then made entry into the home and located Torres. Deputies rendered medical aid until emergency medical personnel arrived and transported Torres to an area hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

No deputies were injured during the incident. This incident remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Investigations Bureau. The deputies will not be identified by the New Mexico State Police. For information on their duty status or administrative actions taken, please contact the Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office.

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 act 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.