Eddy County, NM – A suspect was hospitalized and faces multiple felony charges following an officer-involved shooting Sunday evening, October 19, 2025, north of Hidalgo, according to the New Mexico State Police.
Investigators say that around 6 p.m., deputies from the Eddy County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of an armed individual along McKittrick Road. A 911 caller reported that a man carrying a rifle had run toward their vehicle.
Upon arrival, a sheriff’s sergeant encountered the suspect, identified as 34-year-old Dustin Henley, who allegedly fired at least one round from a .22-caliber rifle, striking the sergeant’s vehicle. The sergeant reportedly returned fire, hitting Henley.
Police say Henley then dropped his weapon and attempted to hide in nearby vegetation. Despite repeated commands to surrender, he did not comply. With the help of an Eddy County K9, Henley was taken into custody and airlifted to a Texas hospital for treatment. The deputy was not injured.
Henley now faces multiple charges, including assault with intent to commit a violent felony upon a peace officer, aggravated assault, and resisting arrest.
The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is leading the review of the incident and will share its findings with the district attorney’s office. Authorities emphasize that the agency acts solely as a factfinder and does not determine whether the deputy’s actions were justified.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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