Close Call: Albuquerque Officer Survives Shooting Thanks to Radio
Incident Details
On the afternoon of December 21, 2025, an attempted arrest in northwest Albuquerque escalated into a dangerous shootout, resulting in the critical injury of a suspect and the miraculous survival of an officer. The incident unfolded around 2:56 p.m. at a motel located near Coors Boulevard and Iliff NW, where two officers from the Albuquerque Police Department were pursuing a man wanted for alleged auto theft.
As the officers approached the suspect, he fled on foot, leading to a physical confrontation described by Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina as a “wrestling match.” During this struggle, the suspect fired at one officer, with the bullet striking the officer’s police radio, which ultimately saved his life. The second officer responded by firing at the suspect, hitting him in the upper torso and leaving him in critical condition.
Police Response and Eyewitness Accounts
The chaotic scene drew immediate police response, with multiple units arriving rapidly. Eyewitness Shelly Granillo, an employee at a nearby business, recounted hearing several gunshots and likened the scene to a video game, saying, “It looked like GTA (Grand Theft Auto). It was crazy.” Chief Medina confirmed that approximately 5 to 6 shots were fired during the incident, underscoring the tense atmosphere that enveloped the area.
According to local news reports, the rapid police response involved securing the motel area and tending to both the injured officer and the suspect.
Background on the Suspect
The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, has a criminal history that dates back to 2010, including two arrests earlier in 2025. At the time of the arrest, he had two active felony warrants. Chief Medina expressed frustration over the ongoing issue of repeat offenders in Albuquerque, emphasizing the challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with recidivism despite efforts to improve the system.
Community Context and Safety Concerns
This incident highlights the ongoing public safety challenges in Albuquerque, particularly in neighborhoods like the Coors and Iliff area, which has seen prior incidents of violence and police activity. The area’s higher-than-average rates of violent crime and auto theft underscore the urgent need for effective strategies to address these issues.
Chief Medina’s comments reflect broader concerns within the community regarding the judicial system’s handling of repeat offenders. “Eight years later… it seems like we’re having the same conversation of repeat offenders who are being let out and not held to consequences,” he stated, calling for systemic changes to support officer safety and community well-being.
Broader Implications for Officer Safety
This incident is not isolated, as the Albuquerque Police Department has faced several officer-involved shootings recently. The effective use of equipment, such as the officer’s radio that saved his life, has become a crucial focus in discussions about officer safety and the need for ongoing reforms in police practices. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers officers face daily while serving the community.
As Albuquerque continues to grapple with issues of crime and safety, community members and local officials alike are urged to engage in conversations about effective solutions to enhance public safety and support law enforcement.
