A year after explosive devices detonated at two churches in Las Cruces, Local and Federal law enforcement agencies are still looking for who’s responsible.
$40,000 in reward money is being offered for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for planting bombs outside of Las Cruces Churches.
A year ago, two bombs detonated outside of Holy Cross Catholic Church and Calvary Baptist Church, no one was injured in the blasts.
Weeks later, a third device believed to be planted at the same time was found outside First Presbyterian Church, it did not detonate and was rendered safe.
FBI special agent in charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Division Terry Wade says no tip is too small or unhelpful.
“We understand the public’s frustration with the lack of resolution in this case,” Wade said. “And we as Law Enforcement agencies certainly share in that frustration. With the publics help we will track down and bring to justice those who would violate one of the most precious liberties we have in this country that is to peacefully gather in our houses of worship.”
The FBI is still hoping to identify a person of interest seen walking through the parking lot of Calvary Baptist Church around the time of the explosion. Wade says the case is still active, and they are still discovering new leads.
“I wouldn’t classify this one as cold yet,” Wade said. “It has been a year but it is still an active investigation. So, I think classically when you talk about a cold case it’s only when something new potentially comes in. We’re still actively out pursuing different things right now. The multiple agencies involved.”
The FBI is offering a $20,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of a suspect, Las Cruces/ Dona Ana County Crime Stoppers is offering a separate $20,000 reward that expires on September 30th.
Rev. Dr. Kevin Glenn of Calvary Baptist Church says they have improved security since the incident.
“We have a security team and I know they would want me not to reveal everything that we have done,” Glenn said. “But what measures we have taken are not invasive, and what I’ve encouraged my congregation and other congregations is to be vigilant in our watch and faithful in our witness.”
Glenn says Las Cruces remains a strong community.
“This incident, while dangerous, tragic,” Glenn said. “This incident, while still is in need of resolution has revealed the stuff that Las Cruces, New Mexico is made of, and I’m proud to be a resident, proud to be a part of this community.”
Anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 505-889-1300 or Las Cruces/ Dona Ana County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
