Tragic Shootout: Suspect Dies After Shooting Albuquerque Officer

Incident Details

On December 22, 2025, a violent confrontation unfolded at the Rodeway Inn in Northwest Albuquerque, resulting in the death of 32-year-old Luis Arreola-Palma. The incident began when Albuquerque Police Department (APD) officers attempted to apprehend Arreola-Palma, who was wanted on two outstanding warrants related to auto theft and aggravated assault. During the arrest attempt, Arreola-Palma fled, leading to a physical struggle where he shot an officer in the chest. Fortunately, the bullet struck the officer’s radio, preventing a fatal injury. In response, a second officer returned fire, striking Arreola-Palma multiple times. He was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.

Background on the Suspect

Arreola-Palma had a troubling criminal history, having been identified as one of APD’s Top 25 Auto Theft Offenders in December 2025. His previous offenses included a charge for unlawfully taking a vehicle and an aggravated assault case from earlier in the year. In a notable incident on October 4, 2025, he was caught driving a stolen vehicle detected by automated license plate readers. Despite admitting to the theft, he was released on his own recognizance and subsequently failed to appear in court, leading to the warrants against him. In another alarming incident, he allegedly shot at a man in a market parking lot, further illustrating his dangerous behavior.

Officer Safety and Aftermath

Thanks to his radio absorbing the bullet, the injured officer survived the encounter without serious harm. APD Chief Harold Medina confirmed the officer’s stable condition and noted the gravity of the situation, highlighting the risks involved in warrant service operations, particularly in locations known for criminal activity.

Context of Police Engagements in Albuquerque

This incident marks the 15th time in 2025 that APD officers have shot or shot at someone, with 11 of those occurrences resulting in fatalities. The high rate of police shootings has drawn scrutiny and calls for a review of the department’s use-of-force policies. The city has been grappling with elevated auto theft rates, prompting initiatives like the Top 25 Offenders list and increased surveillance through license plate readers. This case underscores the ongoing challenges Albuquerque faces in addressing violent crime while ensuring officer and community safety.

As the investigation into the officer-involved shooting continues, community members and local leaders are left to reflect on the implications of such violent encounters and the broader systemic issues at play in Albuquerque.