Authorities ID Man Killed in Shootout with Santa Fe Deputy

Close-quarters gunfight left deputy with burns to the face from 'muzzle flash'

Apr. 19, 2026 at 6:51am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered gun magazine or spent shell casing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the stark, gritty, and investigative nature of this crime scene.The aftermath of a violent confrontation between law enforcement and a suspect with a criminal history exposes the gritty realities of policing on the streets.Santa Fe Today

Authorities have identified the man killed in a shootout with a Santa Fe County deputy early Saturday morning as 36-year-old Randall Lopez. The deputy was treated for burns to the face from the muzzle flash, and the gun Lopez was armed with had been reported stolen.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with armed and dangerous suspects, particularly those with a history of violent crimes. It also raises questions about bail reform and the release of repeat offenders.

The details

According to New Mexico State Police, the deputy tried to pull over Lopez for speeding near Agua Fria and San Felipe around 4 a.m. Lopez fled on a motorcycle, leading the deputy on a chase. When the deputy caught up to Lopez and pushed him off the motorcycle, Lopez produced a firearm and fired at the deputy, missing him. The deputy then returned fire, striking and killing Lopez.

  • The incident occurred around 4 a.m. on Saturday, April 19, 2026.
  • Lopez was arrested by State Police on April 10, 2026 for concealing his identity during a traffic stop, and was released on April 13, 2026 to await trial.

The players

Randall Lopez

A 36-year-old man with a history of serious felony charges, including a 2021 murder case that was dismissed and a 2021 case with charges including kidnapping, armed robbery, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon that was also dismissed.

Santa Fe County Deputy

The deputy who was involved in the shootout with Randall Lopez, suffering burns to the face from the muzzle flash.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This case remains under investigation by the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau. The name of the deputy involved will not be released at this time.”

— New Mexico State Police

What’s next

The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is continuing to investigate this incident. The name of the deputy involved will be released at a later time.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in dealing with armed and dangerous suspects, particularly those with a history of violent crimes. It also raises questions about bail reform and the release of repeat offenders, as Lopez had a long criminal history and was out on bail at the time of the incident.