10-11-2023 11:37pm

Laura McCormick of the Weed Store Succumbed to a Shooting Incident

Chris Edwards Editor

In memory of Laura McCormick family provided photo

Laura McCormick was working at the Weed Store southeast of Cloudcroft in the Lincoln National Forest in Western Otero County about an hour from Alamogordo. A man went inside the Weed Store located on Agua Chiquita Road-to pay for gas and then shot and killed McCormick.

In a post on the Facebook page of the Mayhill County Store it stated: Laura McCormick who was working a shift at the Weed Store this morning was shot and killed. You may recognize her from our store as well as she worked for us for a year. She leaves behind two small boys and a husband, step children and many friends and family. They respectfully ask for privacy and prayers during this time. Many have reached out regarding donations for the family. Donations made be made to Carl McCormick and dropped off at the Mayhill Store, Weed Store and the Mayhill Cafe."

Per social media posts from the store owners they had video of the alleged assailant and posted it online with a plea: "This is the guy and the vehicle they are currently searching for regarding the shooting at the Weed Store this morning - this guy was in our store days earlier! If you see him or his truck call 911!"

In another post the owners reported that Otero County Sheriff Black claimed they apprehended the suspect, "Travis and I just went to the Weed Store to get an answer from law enforcement whether or not the suspect was in custody. Sheriff Black said they did have a suspect in custody. Then as we were driving down Denny Hill we just happened to witness the exchange from State Police to the SO at the bottom of Denny Hill. It is the same man in the pictures we circulated. Even though he has been caught, this man has left a hole in our little mountain community. Please continue to pray for the families and the community as a whole. It is unimaginable that this could happen up here."

The Otero County Dispatch Authority confirmed that they had issued an advisory and were on the lookout for the suspect, "Otero County Sheriffs is looking for a Suspect, reported as an older white male, thin build, balding, He was traveling in Blue Single Cab long bed Dodge pickup. Possibly armed with a rifle. Last seen south bound towards Hwy 24. If spotted Dial 911. Suspect was involved in a shooting at the weed store."

The Otero County Dispatch Authority confirmed that the suspect was apprehended. The Otero County Sheriff’s Office said they are not releasing any other details at this time of print. As further details are released we will release them to the public.

Our deepest sympathies to the family and friends during this tragic time.