Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico State Police have released lapel video footage from an incident that occurred about a month ago, showing the events leading up to the fatal shooting of 35-year-old Francisco Hernandez at a northeast Albuquerque apartment complex.
Details of the Incident
The incident began when Francisco Hernandez, who was wanted for a prior engagement with the Sandia Police Department, was located by State Police at the Pavilions Apartments around 11:30 a.m. According to the NMSP, Hernandez attempted to escape in a vehicle but crashed shortly thereafter. He then fled on foot and during the pursuit, he appeared to pull out a weapon and point it at one of the officers, prompting them to open fire.
Aftermath and Investigation
Tragically, despite immediate medical attention rendered at the scene, Hernandez succumbed to his injuries. It was later revealed by the NMSP that the object Hernandez had pointed at the officers was, in fact, a BB gun, not a lethal firearm. The officers involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave pending a full investigation, which the NMSP warns could take up to a year to conclude.
Community and Police Response
This incident has stirred significant community response and raised questions about police procedures and the use of force. The release of the lapel video is part of the NMSP’s commitment to transparency in this case. It allows the public to see the circumstances leading up to the shooting, which is crucial for public understanding and trust in the investigative process.
Broader Implications
The shooting highlights ongoing national conversations about police training, the handling of crisis situations, and how officers make split-second decisions under pressure. The fact that the object was a BB gun adds complexity to the discourse surrounding the use of lethal force and the challenges faced by law enforcement officers in distinguishing real threats in tense situations.
Looking Forward
As the community grapples with this tragic event, local leaders and law enforcement officials are called upon to review and potentially revise training and engagement protocols to prevent such incidents in the future. Community forums and discussions with stakeholders are being organized to address public concerns and foster dialogue between the police and Albuquerque residents.
Conclusion
The fatal shooting of Francisco Hernandez and the subsequent release of the lapel video is a pivotal moment for Albuquerque. It presents an opportunity for critical reflections on police practices, community safety, and how to move forward in a way that ensures justice and security for all citizens.
