An unfortunate incident occurred early Friday when a New Mexico State Police officer was fatally shot after offering to help a driver of a disabled vehicle. The driver responded by shooting the officer twice and fleeing the scene with the patrol car, according to authorities.
An arrest warrant has been issued for 32-year-old Jaremy Smith of Marion, South Carolina, who is considered armed and dangerous in connection with the ambush attack on Interstate 40 that resulted in the death of Officer Justin Hare, as confirmed by the New Mexico State Police.
State Police Chief Troy Weisler expressed his dismay over the tragic event, stating that the last words uttered by Officer Hare were an offer of assistance to the man who ultimately took his life. Weisler condemned the actions of the perpetrator and assured that every available resource would be utilized to bring Hare's killer to justice.
The incident took place around 5 a.m. local time when Hare responded to a call for help from a motorist with a flat tire near Tucumcari in eastern New Mexico. Upon arriving at the scene and parking behind Smith's disabled vehicle, a brief conversation ensued between Hare and Smith regarding the tire repair, during which Hare offered to give Smith a ride to town.
Unexpectedly, Smith brandished a firearm and shot Hare, before firing another shot and driving off in the patrol vehicle after pushing Hare into the passenger seat. The stolen car was later abandoned by Smith.
Smith is facing multiple charges, including first-degree murder, armed robbery, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, tampering with evidence, felon in possession of a firearm, unlawful taking of a motor vehicle, and criminal damage to property, as per the police statement.
Officer Hare, a graduate of police recruit school in 2018, is survived by his parents, girlfriend, and two young children, as confirmed by the police chief. New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham expressed her condolences to Hare's family, friends, and colleagues during this challenging time.
