Patrolman Richard Gomez, New Mexico State Police, New Mexico

Patrolman Richard Gomez

New Mexico State Police, New Mexico

End of Watch Thursday, April 17, 1980

Richard Gomez

Patrolman Richard Gomez was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man for drunk driving. During the arrest, the suspect pulled out a .22 caliber handgun and shot Patrolman Gomez in the left shoulder, severing a major artery. The suspect remained at the scene and surrendered without incident.

The 60 year-old suspect was convicted of voluntary manslaughter and sentenced to 13 years in prison on February 21, 1981.

Patrolman Gomez was a U.S. Navy veteran and had been in law enforcement for ten years. He is survived by his wife, daughter, and son.

Bio

Age 31
Tour 10 years
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Handgun; .22 caliber
Offender Sentenced to 13 years

Most Recent Reflection

View all 10 Reflections

Patrolman Gomez,
Sir, even though it's been 35 years since your End of Watch you are still honored and remembered. I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a LEO but for our Country as well when you served in the USN. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Fair Winds And Following Seas

Anonymous
United States Border Patrol

April 18, 2015