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 12 ReflectionsPatrolman Gomez,
On today, the 40th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice-not just as a Law Enforcement Officer but for our Country as well when you served with 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 17, 2020
Recent LODD Deaths
Lieutenant Jeff Bain
DeKalb County Sheriff's Office, AL
EOW: January 3, 2021
Correctional Officer David A. Christensen
Washington State Department of Corrections, WA
EOW: December 29, 2020
Lieutenant John Reynolds
Garden Grove Police Department, CA
EOW: January 17, 2021
Corrections Officer Joseph A. Martini
Ulster County Sheriff's Office, NY
EOW: January 17, 2021
Police Officer Arturo Villegas
Alamo Police Department, GA
EOW: January 10, 2021
Deputy Sheriff Jon Melvin
Grant County Sheriff's Office, WA
EOW: December 11, 2020
Deputy Sheriff Adam Gibson
Sacramento County Sheriff's Department, CA
EOW: January 18, 2021
Police Officer Brandon Stalker
Toledo Police Department, OH
EOW: January 18, 2021
Police Officer Jay Hughes
Kalispel Tribal Police Department, TR
EOW: January 6, 2021