Alamogordo NM
7-11-2026 8:27am

New Mexico Supreme Court Upholds First-Degree Murder Conviction in Killing of Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony Ferguson

In a decision that reaffirms justice for fallen heroes in our community, the New Mexico Supreme Court has upheld the first-degree murder conviction and life sentence without parole of Dominic De La O for the 2023 killing of Alamogordo Police Officer Anthony “Tony” Ferguson. The unanimous ruling, issued July 9, 2026, solidifies all convictions against De La O and ensures he will spend the rest of his life in prison.

Officer Ferguson, a dedicated 11-year veteran of the Alamogordo Police Department and a respected Field Training Officer, embodied the best of local law enforcement. Born September 1, 1981, in Aztec, New Mexico, to Danny Ferguson and Dianne Mahan, Tony built a life of service in the place he called home. He joined the APD on October 31, 2011, and graduated from the New Mexico Police Academy on December 14, 2012. He quickly earned a reputation as a committed protector—someone who mentored new officers, responded to calls with professionalism, and worked tirelessly to keep Alamogordo safe amid the daily challenges of small-town policing tied to Holloman Air Force Base and a tight-knit community. His loss sent shockwaves through Otero County, where he was remembered not just as an officer, but as a husband, father, son, and friend whose bright spirit and steadfast duty touched countless lives.

The Tragic Incident: A Routine Stop Turns Deadly

The events unfolded in the early morning hours of July 15, 2023. Around 2:18 a.m., Alamogordo officers initiated a traffic stop near Puerto Rico and 9th Street for a vehicle with non-working taillights. The driver, Dominic De La O, chose to flee instead of complying. What began as a pursuit for a minor violation rapidly escalated into a high-speed chase through the streets of Alamogordo. De La O’s vehicle eventually crashed into a light pole.

Rather than surrendering, De La O exited the wrecked car armed with a sawed-off, unregistered shotgun. A foot pursuit ensued as officers, including Ferguson, gave chase on foot. During the confrontation, De La O turned and fired, striking Officer Ferguson. Despite life-saving efforts, Ferguson was airlifted to University Medical Center in El Paso, Texas, where he succumbed to his injuries on July 16, 2023.

The case evolved through thorough investigation, federal firearms charges against De La O and an accomplice for supplying the weapon, a high-profile trial, and sentencing. In November 2024, De La O received a life sentence in state court. Additional federal firearms convictions in 2025 added an 8-year consecutive sentence, further guaranteeing he would never walk free again. The Supreme Court’s recent affirmation rejected De La O’s appeal arguments—including claims about witness testimony and sufficiency of evidence—emphasizing the deliberate choices he made that night, from fleeing the initial stop to carrying and using the illegal weapon during the pursuit.

Legacy of Service: The Ferguson Academy for Youth

Out of this profound tragedy, the community has channeled grief into positive action. In honor of Officer Ferguson’s commitment to mentoring and service, Alamogordo Public Schools, the City of Alamogordo, the Alamogordo Police Department, and the Alamogordo Fire Department established the Ferguson Academy. This annual summer internship and youth program gives high school students hands-on training alongside first responders. Participants learn about law enforcement, firefighting, public safety, leadership, and community service—directly reflecting Tony’s role as a Field Training Officer who invested in the next generation.

The program has grown into a meaningful annual tradition, with students gaining real-world experience, building skills, and forming connections that strengthen the fabric of Alamogordo. It stands as a living tribute, turning a heartbreaking loss into opportunities for young people to follow in the footsteps of a hero who dedicated his life to protecting and uplifting others.

Officer Ferguson’s sacrifice strengthened bonds between law enforcement, residents, and local leaders. It sparked renewed conversations about officer safety, the dangers of routine traffic stops, and support for first responders. Memorials continue to honor his service, while his family and the APD carry forward his legacy of courage and community protection.

The ruling stands as a powerful statement that violence against those who wear the badge will not go unpunished in New Mexico.

Alamogordo and Otero County mourned a hero but gained resolve from his example. Officer Tony Ferguson’s story reminds us of the everyday risks taken by those who serve—and the enduring pursuit of justice and community betterment that follows such losses.

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