On the morning of Thursday, May 8, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in the 900 block of Walnut Street in Las Cruces, New Mexico, resulting in the death of 18-year-old Josiah Perrault and non-life-threatening injuries to another man. The shooting occurred around 6:30 a.m., near Lynn Middle School, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement and the Officer-involved Incident Task Force (OIITF), which includes investigators from the Las Cruces Police Department, New Mexico State Police, Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State University Police .

Incident Overview

According to the Las Cruces Police Department, the officer involved in the shooting was not injured and has been placed on paid administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases . While the investigation is ongoing, details about the events leading up to the shooting remain limited. A local resident reported hearing several loud gunshots, followed by the sound of a car speeding away, but did not initially think much of it due to frequent gunfire in the area .

Community Impact and School Operations

Although the incident did not occur on the Lynn Middle School campus, a portion of Walnut Street in front of the school was closed to traffic during the investigation. The school adjusted its operations by directing bus and parent drop-offs to the northwest side near the gymnasium, accessible via Nevada Avenue .

Investigation and Public Communication

The OIITF continues to gather evidence and collect statements, with findings to be forwarded to the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office. A news conference to provide additional information is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at City Hall. This delay is due to many department members attending National Police Week events in Washington, D.C., to honor Officer Jonah Hernandez .

Ongoing Developments

As of now, the identities of the individuals involved have not been publicly released, and the investigation remains in its early stages. The community awaits further updates from the Las Cruces Police Department and the OIITF as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

For the latest information, residents are encouraged to monitor official channels, including the City of Las Cruces website and the Las Cruces Police Department’s social media platforms.