Torrance County Firefighters Accused of Beating Man with Mental Health Issues

Two firefighters face multiple charges after video shows them threatening and assaulting a man known to have mental health issues.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:08pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a pair of handcuffs against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, investigative aesthetic through the use of harsh, direct lighting.A harsh, gritty image of the physical evidence at the center of an investigation into alleged abuse of power by public safety officials.Albuquerque Today

An investigation is underway into two Torrance County firefighters, Deputy Fire Chief Hanna Sanchez and Assistant Fire Chief Randy Sanchez, who are accused of beating a man with mental health issues and threatening to kill him. Police say the incident was captured on video shared by a witness, showing the firefighters calling about the man walking on their property and then threatening and assaulting him.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about law enforcement and public safety officials using excessive force, especially against individuals with mental health challenges. It raises questions about training, accountability, and the need for better crisis intervention protocols to protect vulnerable community members.

The details

According to court documents, last month the two Torrance County Volunteer Fire Department officials called police about a man walking around their property and threatening kids. Investigators later determined the man was known to have mental health issues. Witness video shows Randy and Hanna Sanchez threatening the man, who responds that he didn't do anything, before the firefighters are seen physically assaulting him. The couple now faces multiple charges.

  • Last month, police say the incident occurred involving the two Torrance County firefighters.

The players

Hanna Sanchez

Deputy Fire Chief of the Torrance County Volunteer Fire Department, accused of beating a man with mental health issues and threatening to kill him.

Randy Sanchez

Assistant Fire Chief of the Torrance County Volunteer Fire Department, accused of beating a man with mental health issues and threatening to kill him.

Estancia Police

The police department investigating the incident involving the two Torrance County firefighters.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for better training and protocols for public safety officials when dealing with individuals experiencing mental health crises, in order to de-escalate situations and avoid the use of excessive force.