11-14-2024 4:51am

New Mexico State Police Investigating OIS Involving Valencia County Sheriff’s Office

Chris Edwards Editor

On November 12, 2024, the New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested by the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office and the Belen Police Department to investigate an officer-involved shooting (OIS) involving law enforcement officers from both Valencia County Sheriff’s Office (VCSO) and the Belen Police Department (BPD).

State Police agents learned that on November 12, 2024, at approximately 7 p.m., Valencia County Regional Emergency Communications Center received a third-party call stating that Vicente Baca (33) was “raging”, and his mother was afraid of him.

Law enforcement officers from VCSO and BPD responded to 50 Maestas Road and were informed Baca had two active felony warrants and may be in a shed on the property. Law enforcement officers on scene learned that Baca was entering a silver vehicle on the property. A deputy attempted to contact the vehicle when Baca exited and fled on foot. A foot pursuit ensued, and Baca was observed entering the property of 5B Maestas Road armed with a handgun when at least one shot was fired by law enforcement. Baca continued on foot and entered the property of 14 Maestas Road, where he was confronted by law enforcement officers. At least one shot was fired at this second location, by law enforcement.

Baca was uninjured and taken into custody by VCSO. A firearm was located on the property near where Baca was arrested. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident. Contact VCSO for details on the arrest, and charges.

New Mexico State Police will not release the names of the law enforcement officers involved. Contact VCSO and BPD for information on the officers' names, duty statuses, and any administrative actions taken. The New Mexico State Police act solely as factfinders in their investigations and conduct an unbiased and impartial investigation.

In officer-involved shootings, NMSP thoroughly documents the scene, collects evidence, and interviews officers, subjects, and witnesses. In turn, the agency compiles facts as detailed as possible and forwards all reports and evidence to the appropriate district attorney for further review.

The New Mexico State Police does not determine whether an officer's actions were justified. This determination rests solely with the district attorney reviewing the investigation.