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A tense evening in the quiet mountain village of Mayhill ended peacefully Monday night after law enforcement officers arrested an armed suspect who attempted to break into the Mayhill Baptist Church.
According to a statement released by the Otero County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to an emergency call at approximately 6:45 p.m. reporting an active breaking and entering at the Mayhill Baptist Church.
Dispatchers from the Tularosa Basin Regional Dispatch Authority advised that a male subject was armed and attempting to gain entry.
A short time later a vehicle matching the description of the vehicle seen at the church was located at a location on Hwy 82. The deputy who located the alleged burglary suspect awaited backup of additional deputies and the New Mexico State Police.
The suspect is unidentified in the press release. The individual arrestedwas transported to the Otero County Detention Center and booked on multiple charges, including
- Desecration of a Church
- Shooting at a Dwelling or Occupied Building
- Criminal Damage to Property
This incident remains under active investigation. If you have any additional information regarding this incident, please contact the Otero County Sheriff's Office.
The Otero County Sheriff's Office would like to remind the public that if you observe any suspicious activity, please contact your local law enforcement agency or the Otero County Sheriff's Office immediately.
Undersheriff Raul Robles released the information of a coordinated response with the New Mexico State Police. Community members with information are encouraged to contact the Otero County Sheriff’s Office at (575) 437-2210.
The incident has stirred a sigh of relief in the close-knit Mayhill community, where churches often serve as both spiritual and civic sanctuaries. No injuries were reported, and the church sustained no significant damage.
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