The Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Department Special Response Team was called out just after 5 p.m. Tuesday after a man – reportedly armed – eluded a Border Patrol checkpoint north of Las Cruces.
Deputies engaged in a high-speed pursuit with the man, said to have been driving a black car. The man exited at Hatch and drove westbound until the road ended, where he reportedly abandoned his vehicle.
Road blocks have been set up in the area to look for the man, and a Border Patrol helicopter is aiding in the search. New Mexico State Police are also assisting, along with Hatch police.
Residents in the area are asked to stay indoors and report any suspicious activity to 911 immediately.