NMSP Investigates Officer-Involved Shooting in Deming Involving U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Apprehension

Deming, NM – The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Thursday, April 23, 2026, during a U.S. Marshals Service operation to apprehend two fugitives wanted on serious child sex crime charges.

According to preliminary information released by authorities, U.S. Marshals Service deputies were attempting to serve nationwide extradition warrants on Joseph McDowell, 44, and Cassondra Sauber, 42, at a residence located at 309 West Pine Street in Deming.

McDowell was wanted on multiple felony charges including:

• Three counts of child molestation

• Child exploitation

• Five counts of possession of child pornography

• Unlawful possession of a firearm

• Battery

• Strangulation

Sauber was wanted on charges of:

• Prior child molestation

• Child molestation

As deputies breached the door to enter the residence, McDowell reportedly armed himself with a rifle and held it in a firing position while attempting to close the door. At least one deputy discharged a duty rifle toward McDowell. McDowell then barricaded himself inside the home along with Sauber.

Deputies withdrew, established a perimeter, and made repeated callouts for the pair to surrender peacefully. When there was no response, law enforcement deployed a drone and a robot to enter the residence. Both McDowell and Sauber were found deceased inside from what authorities said appear to be self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

No U.S. Marshals Service deputies or other officers were injured during the incident.

The identities of the involved USMS deputies are not being released by the New Mexico State Police. Inquiries regarding their duty status or any administrative actions should be directed to the United States Marshals Service.

New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau agents are conducting an independent investigation into the sequence of events. This includes collecting physical evidence, conducting interviews, and documenting the scene. Once the investigation is complete, findings will be forwarded to the district attorney’s office for review.

As is standard procedure, the New Mexico State Police serves only as a fact-finding agency in officer-involved shootings and does not make determinations on whether the use of force was justified. That decision rests solely with the district attorney.

The incident remains under active investigation by the New Mexico State Police. No further details are being released at this time

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