A New Mexico State Police officer was fatally shot during a traffic stop Friday by a suspect described as "armed and dangerous."
The shooting happened on Interstate 40 near Tucumari, about 175 miles east of Albuquerque, the state police said in a Facebook posting.
"Suspect was last seen wearing a brown hoodie and jacket and is considered armed and dangerous," the statement said, adding that the scene was still active and that more details would be released later.
The state police warned that anyone who comes in contact with the suspect, last seen in the area on foot, not approach him and contact police.
Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called the shooting of Officer Justin Hare "devastating."
"I'm heartbroken by the devastating news that State Police Officer Justin Hare was killed in the line of duty while responding to a call near Tucumcari this morning," the governor said in a statement, according to the Quay County Sun.
"It's a tragic reminder of the dangers our law enforcement officers face each time they put on a uniform and report for duty. Officer Hare was doing his job protecting his community, and his sacrifice will never be forgotten. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and fellow officers at this most difficult time," the governor said.
