New Mexico State Police Identify Suspect in Officer’s Murder

New Mexico –

The New Mexico State Police has identified the suspect who brutally killed New Mexico State Police Officer Justin Hare.

The suspect is Jaremy Smith, 32, from Marion, South Carolina.

New Mexico State Police Chief Troy Weisler said in a pre-recorded statement described the murder of State Police officer Hare. Officer Hare was doing a welfare check on a car driven by Smith:

He parked behind a disabled vehicle. The suspect exited his vehicle and approached Officer Harris Passenger side window. A short conversation ensued about repairing his tire, and Officer Hare offered to give the suspect a ride to town. Then, without warning, the suspect pulled out a firearm and shot Officer Hare. The suspect then walked to the driver’s side and shot Officer Hare again.

He then pushed Officer Hare into the passenger seat and drove away in Officer Harris patrol unit, which was abandoned a short time later. The last words that Officer Hare uttered on this earth was an offer to help the man who was about to kill him. I am disgusted and I am sickened by the actions of this cold blooded murder.

NMSP Chief Troy Weisler

New Mexico State Police has issued an arrest warrant for Smith, charging him with First Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, Shooting at or from a Motor Vehicle, Tampering with Evidence, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle, and Criminal Damage to Property.

Smith is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached. If seen, call the New Mexico State Police at (505) 425-6771 or dial 911.

The remains of Hare were transported from Tucumcari to Albuquerque. Hare’s remains will undergo an autopsy before he is transported back to his hometown.