Suspect Identified in Fatal Las Cruces Officer-Involved Shooting Over Alleged Bicycle Theft

Las Cruces, NM — February 9, 2026 — The Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) is actively investigating a deadly officer-involved shooting that unfolded Sunday morning, February 8, near the Walmart Supercenter at 1550 S. Valley Drive. The incident, which began as a response to a reported bicycle theft, escalated into multiple exchanges of gunfire, resulting in the death of the suspect.

According to preliminary details released by LCPD, the event started around 7:21 a.m. when an officer, who was working approved off-duty employment at the Walmart, was flagged down by a citizen regarding a bicycle theft. The officer located the suspect and attempted to detain him.

During the initial encounter, the suspect fired at least one round at the officer, prompting the officer to return fire. The suspect then fled the scene on foot. Additional officers arrived to establish a perimeter around the area near South Valley Drive and Avenida de Mesilla. As they searched for the suspect, further exchanges of gunfire occurred. The suspect was struck and pronounced deceased at the scene.

The suspect has since been identified as 28-year-old Johnny Ray Morales of Las Cruces, according to updates from LCPD and local media reports.

No officers were reported injured in the incident, and no other individuals were harmed. Multiple scenes in the surrounding area were secured by responding officers, leading to temporary impacts on local traffic and businesses near the Walmart and adjacent areas.

The investigation is being handled by the Officer-involved Incident Task Force, a multi-agency team that includes investigators from the New Mexico State Police, Las Cruces Police Department, Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State University Police. The task force is responsible for gathering all facts in the case and presenting them to the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office for review.

LCPD has indicated that a news conference may be held once additional information is confirmed and verified. At this time, limited details are available, and authorities are urging the public to avoid speculation as the investigation continues.

This incident highlights the rapid escalation that can occur during routine calls, even those involving minor offenses like theft. Community members in the South Valley Drive area may experience ongoing disruptions as evidence collection and scene processing proceed.

2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News & KALH Radio will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more information becomes available from official sources. For the latest, check the Las Cruces Police Department’s official channels or local news outlets.

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