Man killed in Deming after three-block chase in daylight
State police are investigating the officer-involved shooting that ended near a Wells Fargo bank, following a report of gunfire at a local apartment.
By Ella Cox ·
Residents in the center of Deming watched a three-block foot chase unfold on Thursday afternoon, ending with the death of a 28-year-old man near a busy coffee shop and a bank. Jaime Aguilar was shot by three police officers after fleeing the scene of an apparent homicide. The incident occurred in broad daylight, visible from surrounding businesses in the downtown area.
The sequence began at 4:30 p.m. when Deming police responded to a report of gunfire at an apartment building located at Spruce Street and Platinum Avenue. Officers found Shawn Anderson, 50, deceased at that residence. Aguilar, identified as a suspect in the death, ran away on foot. Police tape left on the scene indicated the pursuit moved through an alley behind commercial buildings before reaching the rear of a Wells Fargo Bank near Gold Street and Leyendecker Plaza.
New Mexico State Police is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. Investigators stated that Aguilar ignored commands to stop during the chase. Three officers discharged their weapons and struck Aguilar. A firearm was recovered at the location where he fell. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The agency has not specified how many times Aguilar was hit or if he fired back at the officers.
Deming Police Chief Sergio Lara confirmed that none of the officers were injured. The three officers involved, who have not been named, are currently on administrative leave. This is a standard procedure while the state probe is active. State police are continuing to interview witnesses and examine the events leading up to the gunfire. Their findings will be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office.
The shooting occurred in a commercial corridor where local businesses operate daily. The presence of police tape near the bank and plaza on Friday underscored the location of the final moments of the chase. Authorities have not yet released a detailed timeline of the specific commands given or the exact positions of the officers during the exchange of fire.
