SANTA FE, N.M. — A reckless driver has been arrested after a police-involved shooting Sunday in Santa Fe that canceled the Desfile de la Gente parade, authorities said.
Santa Fe police reported the incident occurred near downtown Santa Fe Plaza around 10:30 a.m., hours ahead of the popular parade that had been scheduled to start at 1 p.m.
The name and age of the suspect weren’t immediately available Sunday.
“We had one individual crashing into cars recklessly, confronting the police, leading the police on a chase,” Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber told the Santa Fe New Mexican. “There were shots fired from the police. He was apprehended and he’s in custody. Unfortunately, he successfully ruined the day for everybody else.”
New Mexico State Police said in a statement that the shooting involved both Santa Fe police and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
State Police said the police officers escaped injury but that the suspect was wounded.
Dan Shipp told The Associated Press that he was a half block away from the plaza make when he saw a white pickup truck make several hard turns before going through a barricade.
Shipp said he then heard “six or seven shots” fired but didn’t know if it was police or the suspect who was doing the shooting.
Hundreds of people were at the plaza setting up tents along the parade route to sell trinkets, rugs and other things, according to Shipp.
“Everything is shut down now,” he said, adding that all other scheduled events at the plaza were also cancelled.
The purpose of the parade, according to the event’s website, “is to provide fun, relaxation and cultural enjoyment for the citizens and visitors of Santa Fe.” The site also refers to the parade as the Santa Fe Fiesta Historical/Hysterical Parade.
An officer-involved shooting in Santa Fe has resulted in the cancellation of a popular parade due to a reckless driver. The incident, which occurred on Saturday afternoon, has left the community in shock and raised questions about the safety of public events.
The shooting took place when police officers attempted to pull over a vehicle for reckless driving. The driver, who has been identified as a 25-year-old male, refused to stop and led officers on a high-speed chase through the streets of Santa Fe. During the pursuit, the driver reportedly fired shots at the officers, prompting them to return fire.
The exchange of gunfire resulted in the driver being shot and taken to a local hospital for treatment. Thankfully, no officers were injured in the incident. However, the chaos and violence of the situation prompted organizers of the annual Santa Fe parade to cancel the event out of concern for public safety.
The cancellation of the parade has disappointed many residents who were looking forward to celebrating with their community. The parade, which typically features floats, marching bands, and local organizations, is a beloved tradition in Santa Fe and draws large crowds each year.
In light of this tragic event, city officials are urging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. They are also emphasizing the importance of following traffic laws and respecting the authority of police officers.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face on a daily basis and the impact that reckless behavior can have on a community. It also highlights the need for continued dialogue and collaboration between law enforcement and the public to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
As the investigation into the officer-involved shooting continues, residents are encouraged to stay informed and support efforts to promote peace and unity in Santa Fe. Despite the cancellation of the parade, the spirit of community and resilience remains strong in this vibrant city.
