Suspect dies in gunfight with Las Cruces police

Authorities investigating shooting after off-duty officer confronted alleged bicycle thief

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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A man accused of stealing a bicycle died during a gunfight with Las Cruces police on Sunday morning. An off-duty officer was flagged down about the alleged theft, and when the officer tried to stop the suspect, police say the man fired a shot at the officer and attempted to flee. Authorities say the officer and suspect then exchanged gunfire, resulting in the suspect's death.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about use of force by police, especially in confrontations with alleged non-violent offenders. The investigation will likely examine whether the officer's actions were justified and if there were any opportunities to de-escalate the situation before it turned deadly.

The details

According to police, the shooting occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday outside a Walmart on Valley Drive in Las Cruces. An off-duty officer was flagged down about a bicycle theft, and when the officer tried to stop the suspect, the man allegedly fired a shot at the officer and attempted to flee on foot. Authorities say the officer and suspect then exchanged gunfire, resulting in the suspect's death.

  • The shooting occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Las Cruces Police Department

The local law enforcement agency in Las Cruces, New Mexico that was involved in the shooting incident.

Unnamed Suspect

A man accused of stealing a bicycle who died during the gunfight with Las Cruces police.

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What’s next

The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, and authorities have not released the name of the deceased suspect. More details are expected to be made public as the probe continues.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex and often volatile nature of police confrontations, even over relatively minor alleged crimes. The investigation will likely examine whether the officer's use of lethal force was justified or if there were opportunities to de-escalate the situation without loss of life.