Alamogordo, NM – A late-night officer-involved shooting in Alamogordo is under investigation after a man armed with a knife was shot and killed by police officers responding to a reported burglary Tuesday night.
According to the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau, the shooting occurred around 11:42 p.m. Tuesday at a residence in the 100 block of Virginia Avenue, located across from a dispensary on East 1st Street. Alamogordo Police Department officers were initially dispatched after receiving a 911 call reporting a possible burglary in the area.
State Police said officers first checked the nearby dispensary when a man at the Virginia Avenue residence alerted them that someone was in his backyard armed with a knife. As an officer approached the home, a male later identified as 41-year-old Anthony Zane Blalock allegedly emerged from behind an enclosed porch and walked toward the officer.
According to investigators, a second officer arrived on scene as officers questioned the male about the knife. Blalock reportedly responded “me” and produced the weapon. Officers repeatedly ordered him to drop the knife, but he allegedly ignored commands and continued advancing toward an officer.
Both officers discharged their duty weapons, striking Blalock. Officers immediately rendered aid, but he was pronounced deceased at the scene a short time later by emergency medical personnel. Neither officer was injured.
During the investigation, agents found no evidence of a burglary or the presence of any other individual inside the home or backyard. Investigators also observed lacerations to Blalock’s face and wrist that appeared to be self-inflicted.
The case remains open and active. The names of the officers involved have not been released. New Mexico State Police emphasized they act solely as factfinders and do not determine whether the use of force was justified. All evidence will be forwarded to the appropriate district attorney for review.
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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