New Mexico Mourns Passing of Ruidoso Downs Police Chief Mark Collins Hargrove

Ruidoso Downs, NM – January 29, 2026 – The New Mexico law enforcement community is grieving the sudden loss of Ruidoso Downs Police Chief Mark Collins Hargrove, who passed away on January 27, 2026, at the age of 56. Chief Hargrove died peacefully at his home in Ruidoso from an off-duty medical event, according to statements from city officials and the Ruidoso Downs Police Department.

Chief Hargrove was sworn in for his most recent term as Police Chief of the Ruidoso Downs Police Department just one week earlier, on January 20, 2026, following the closure of the Ruidoso Downs Racetrack where he had served as Vice President since 2019. His return to the chief’s role underscored his deep commitment to public service and his willingness to answer the call when his community needed experienced leadership.

A native of Memphis, Texas, born on September 12, 1969, Hargrove dedicated 37 years to law enforcement, beginning his career in 1989 with the Hobbs Police Department as a young officer. He served there for six years before joining the Lea County Sheriff’s Office in 1993, where he advanced through the ranks as a patrol officer, drug task force agent, SWAT commander, investigator, sergeant, captain, undersheriff, and ultimately Sheriff of Lea County (elected in 2012 after appointment to fill an unexpired term; served until retirement in 2014).

In 2007, he graduated from the prestigious FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, enhancing his expertise in leadership and operations. Hargrove also chaired the Lea County Drug Task Force and Crime Stoppers, demonstrating his focus on community safety, interagency collaboration, and combating narcotics.

He first assumed the role of Police Chief in Ruidoso Downs in 2017, serving until 2019 before transitioning to the racetrack position. His career was marked by strong interagency partnerships, dedication to public safety, and a passion for mentoring officers and serving rural New Mexico communities.

The New Mexico Department of Public Safety issued a statement mourning his passing: “The New Mexico Department of Public Safety mourns the passing of Ruidoso Downs Police Chief Mark Collins Hargrove on January 27, 2026. Chief Hargrove served New Mexico with distinction for decades, including leadership roles spanning municipal policing and county law enforcement, and he was known for his dedication to community safety and strong interagency partnerships. We extend our deepest condolences to Chief Hargrove’s family and loved ones, and to the Ruidoso Downs Police Department during this difficult time. The Department of Public Safety honors Chief Hargrove’s service and the legacy he leaves behind.” — Jason R. Bowie, Cabinet Secretary.

Condolences poured in from agencies across the state, including the Santa Fe Police Department, Roswell Police Department, Lea County Sheriff’s Office, Alamogordo Police Department and others, all highlighting his leadership, bravery, and devotion. Ruidoso Downs Mayor-Elect Carroll Scott described the loss as “untimely” and praised Hargrove as a “dedicated public servant with over thirty years of service” who was also a friend.

Chief Hargrove is survived by his parents, Gary and Claudia Hargrove of El Paso, Texas; his fiancée, Ana Castanon of Ruidoso; his sister Hilary Graham and brother-in-law Donnie of Lubbock, Texas; daughters Emma and Georgie of Lubbock; nephew JT Graham and family; niece Rylea Graham and family; and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral arrangements are pending and will be announced by Chapel of Hope Funerals & Cremations in Hobbs, NM. The Ruidoso Downs Police Department and broader law enforcement community continue to honor his memory as they support his family and colleagues through this loss.

Chief Hargrove’s legacy endures as one of unwavering service, professional excellence, and community-focused leadership in New Mexico’s rural law enforcement landscape.

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