New Mexico State Police, New Mexico
End of Watch Thursday, April 17, 1980
Add to My HeroesRichard Gomez
Patrolman Richard Gomez was shot and killed while attempting to arrest a man for drunk driving one mile west of Coyote, New Mexico.
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 21st, 1981.
Patrolman Gomez was a U.S. Navy veteran and had served 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 13 ReflectionsRest in peace.
J.R.
April 17, 2022
Recent LODD Deaths

Deputy Sheriff Marylin Mayo
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, LA
EOW: September 21, 2023

Police Officer Darrin McMichael
Arlington Police Department, TX
EOW: September 21, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Ryan Clinkunbroomer
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, CA
EOW: September 16, 2023

Governmental Affairs Liaison Michael Elaine Griffin
Mississippi Department of Public Safety, MS
EOW: September 4, 2023

Police Officer Kevin Cram
Algona Police Department, IA
EOW: September 13, 2023

Deputy Sheriff II Auston Smith Reudelhuber
Forsyth County Sheriff's Office, NC
EOW: September 9, 2023

Detective Robert Garten
Hartford Police Department, CT
EOW: September 6, 2023

Deputy Sheriff Matthew Pierson
Shelby County Sheriff's Office, TX
EOW: August 29, 2023

Sheriff Robert Daniel Rodgers
Wilcox County Sheriff's Office, GA
EOW: August 29, 2023