Police Shooting in Northwest Albuquerque Sparks Calls for Accountability
Incident Overview
On December 21, 2025, an officer from the Albuquerque Police Department (APD) was injured during an attempted arrest at a motel located near the intersection of Coors Boulevard and Iliff Road NW. The officer was shot in the chest, but fortunately, a police radio absorbed the impact, sparing him from serious injury. In response, a fellow officer shot the suspect, who is now in critical condition.
Details of the Arrest Attempt
According to reports, the incident unfolded around 2:56 p.m. when two officers pursued a man wanted for auto theft and who had two active felony warrants. Upon locating the suspect, he fled, resulting in a physical confrontation that escalated when he fired at one of the officers. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with multiple gunshots heard in quick succession.
Community Reactions
Local residents and business owners expressed concern over the ongoing violence in the area, which is known for higher rates of property crime, including auto theft. A nearby Speedway employee, Shelly Granillo, recounted hearing the shots and witnessing the rapid police response, describing it as reminiscent of a video game scenario.
APD’s Response and Investigation
APD Chief Harold Medina held a press conference following the incident, emphasizing the need for systemic changes to address the issue of repeat offenders. He noted that the suspect had a criminal history dating back to 2010 and had been arrested twice in 2025 alone. Chief Medina articulated frustration over the repeat offenders who are not held accountable, stating, “Our officers put their lives on the line every single day and we need some changes to the system.”
Protocols and Future Implications
The APD is following standard protocols for officer-involved shootings, which include securing the scene, collecting evidence, and conducting an independent review by the district attorney’s office and internal affairs. Officers involved in such incidents are typically placed on administrative leave during investigations. The department’s approach aims to provide transparency and uphold use-of-force policies amidst the backdrop of Albuquerque’s ongoing crime challenges.
The shooting highlights broader crime trends in Albuquerque, where the city has seen an uptick in violent crime rates. Despite initiatives aimed at reducing auto theft, including the implementation of license plate readers, the APD continues to confront significant challenges, particularly with recidivism among offenders.
For more information about ongoing crime trends in Albuquerque, visit the APD crime statistics page.
