ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A massive multi-agency law enforcement operation is currently underway in the Northeast Heights following a series of high-speed incidents that have effectively paralyzed traffic along the Interstate 40 corridor during the Wednesday morning commute.
New Mexico State Police, assisted by the Albuquerque Police Department (APD), launched a tactical pursuit shortly after 7:30 a.m. after reports of a vehicle driving erratically and firing shots at passing motorists near the Eubank Boulevard exit. Authorities have confirmed that at least three vehicles were struck by gunfire, leading to localized chaos as commuters swerved to avoid the crossfire.
As of 9:15 a.m., the primary suspect remains at large after abandoning a silver sedan near a residential complex off Juan Tabo Boulevard. Heavily armed officers and K-9 units have established a significant perimeter, blockading several blocks and ordering residents in the immediate vicinity to shelter in place. Overhead, the APD helicopter continues to circle the area, providing tactical support to ground units who are meticulously sweeping yards and alleyways.
“This is an incredibly dangerous individual who has shown a complete disregard for public safety,” said State Police spokesperson Lt. Ray Gonzales during a brief press staging area update. “We are asking the public to stay completely clear of the area between Menaul and Lomas Boulevards. If you see anything suspicious, do not approach—call 911 immediately.”
The incident has resulted in the total closure of several arterial roads, causing gridlock that stretches back to the Big I interchange. New Mexico Department of Transportation officials are advising commuters to avoid the Northeast Heights entirely, as the police investigation is expected to persist for several hours. Local school districts, including Albuquerque Public Schools, have placed nearby campuses on a precautionary “stay-put” status, ensuring that no students or staff are permitted to leave the premises while the tactical sweep continues.
Medical personnel are currently on-site to treat two individuals who sustained minor injuries resulting from collisions during the initial pursuit. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed fatalities, though officials warned that the investigation is in its fluid, early stages.
Witnesses at a nearby gas station described a harrowing scene as the suspect’s vehicle careened through the intersection, narrowly missing pedestrians before officers engaged. “It was like something out of a movie,” said one local business owner who witnessed the pursuit. “You just don’t expect to see this kind of violence during your morning coffee run.”
KRQE News 13 will continue to provide live updates as this situation unfolds. Stay tuned to our digital platforms and live broadcasts for the latest information on road closures and any potential suspect apprehension.
Disclaimer: This content is auto-generated for informational purposes only.
Source: Read Original News
