A New Mexico State Police officer was shot and killed in the line of duty on a highway Friday, according to authorities.
A suspect in the shooting is still at large, according to New Mexico State Police.
The incident happened early Friday morning on Interstate 40 around mile marker 320, near Tucumcari in eastern New Mexico, according to authorities. According to Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, the officer, Justin Hare, was shot and killed while responding to a report.
“It’s a tragic reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face each time they put on a uniform and report for duty,” Lujan Grisham said in a statement. “Officer Hare was doing his job to defend his neighborhood, and his sacrifice will not be forgotten. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his family, friends, and fellow cops during this terrible time.
State police have published images of the shooting suspect, who was last seen on foot on the I-40 Frontage Road at milepost 304, between Montoya and Newkirk.
“The suspect is armed and dangerous; do not approach and call 911 immediately,” New Mexico State Police stated on social media.
Authorities in Hartley County, Texas, earlier told ABC News that they had received indications that the suspect fled the area aboard a train traveling east into the Texas Panhandle. However, following a thorough search, Hartley County Sheriff Chanze Fowler stated that there were no passengers aboard the train and no evidence relating to the suspect. There is also no evidence that the suspect is in the vicinity, he said.
State police said there are currently few details available about the incident.
The suspected suspect was last seen wearing blue jeans, a tan Carhartt jacket, and possibly a red or brown sweatshirt, according to authorities.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the New Mexico State Police.
