New Mexico State Police, New Mexico
End of Watch Friday, March 15, 2024
Add to My HeroesJustin Hare
Patrolman Justin Hare was shot and killed at about 5:30 am while conducting a welfare check on a disabled vehicle that was stopped near mile marker 320 on I-40, west of Tucumcari.
As Patrolman Hare stopped behind the vehicle, the driver exited and walked to the cruiser's passenger window. The two had a short discussion, and as Patrolman Hare offered to drive the man into town, the subject suddenly produced a handgun and shot him. He shot him a second time before pushing him into the passenger seat. He then abducted him and stole the patrol car, abandoning it approximately 16 miles away and fleeing on foot.
Patrolman Hare was taken to a local hospital where he succumbed to his wounds two hours later.
Unbeknownst to Patrolman Hare, the man was the suspect in the murder of an off-duty paramedic in South Carolina several days earlier. The car he was driving belonged to the murder victim. The subject was arrested two days later after exchanging gunfire with a Bernalillo County sheriff's deputy.
Patrolman Hare had served with the New Mexico State Police for six years. He is survived by his girlfriend, two children, mother, father, and brother.
Bio
- Age 35
- Tour 6 years
- Badge Not available
Incident Details
- Cause Gunfire
- Weapon Handgun
- Offender In custody
Most Recent Reflection
View all 145 ReflectionsRest in peace, brother. I know we hadn't talked since we were in school together, playing on basketball teams. I never got the honor to work with you, but you were a great man and a great officer. Your presence will be missed, and there is now a hole in everyone's heart who knew you. God bless.
Special Agent Brenten Cain
Diplomatic Security Sevice
June 1, 2024
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