Shoplifting Suspect Critically Injures Woman During Getaway

Wednesday, May 22, 2019 at 8:42 PM

Eddie Hernandez, 34 (Courtesy: Bloomfield Police Department)

After viewing video footage of the incident and speaking with witnesses at Dollar General, officers confirmed the man in custody was the suspect from the Dollar General hit and run. The suspect was identified as Eddie Hernandez, 34 from Visalia, CA.

From Bloomfield POlice:

May 22, 2019

On May 21, 2019, at approximately 1:15pm officers from the Bloomfield Police Department responded to a call from Dollar General at 1502 W. Broadway in Bloomfield in reference to a shoplifting that led to a pedestrian being run over repeatedly by the fleeing suspect’s vehicle. The woman received life-threatening injuries and transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center. After striking the woman, the suspect fled the scene on foot.

Officers located a man matching the description of the suspect off Ruth Lane. After viewing video footage of the incident and speaking with witnesses at Dollar General, officers confirmed the man in custody was the suspect from the Dollar General hit and run. The suspect was identified as Eddie Hernandez, 34 from Visalia, CA.

BPD booked the suspect on the following charges:
Leaving the scene of an accident knowingly (death or great bodily harm) – 3rd Degree Felony
Great bodily harm by vehicle (reckless) – 3rd Degree Felony
Duty to give information and render aid – Misdemeanor
Drivers must be licensed – Misdemeanor
Shoplifting ($250 or less) – Petty Misdemeanor

“The suspect turned a petty misdemeanor shoplifting incident into a violent felony case where an innocent victim was severely injured,” replied Chief David Karst. “BPD remains in contact with the victim and extends any help and support we can give to the family.”

Currently, the suspect is being held at the San Juan County Detention Center on No Bond. The Bloomfield Police Department is working with the District Attorney’s Office to ensure Mr. Hernandez remains in custody until his trial date. Chief Karst feels this is imperative to the safety of our community.

The investigation is still on-going and if you have any information pertaining to the incident, please call non-emergency dispatch at (505) 334-6622 and ask to speak with the detective in charge.

More from Local News

Durango Begins Water Restrictions

Irrigation for lawns accounts for 70% of Durango’s water usage, so outdoor landscape will be limited to three days a week between the hours of 7 p.m. and 9 a.m. for both residential and commercial users. Odd-numbered addresses are restricted to watering on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Even-numbered addresses are restricted to watering on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Outdoor landscape irrigation is prohibited during all hours on Wednesdays.
Candidates for San Juan County Sheriff Speak with KSJE

All four republican candidates for San Juan County Sheriff have sat down for an interview with KSJE General Manager Scott Michlin.
Police Capture Driver from Fatal Hit & Run US 550 Crash

The driver of the commercial vehicle, identified as 55-year-old Jasper Bunny of Farmington, sustained serious injuries. He was transported by helicopter to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The fleeing driver, identified as 34-year-old Crescencio Castro Baldazo, was located a short distance away near milepost 103. Citizens at the scene prevented him from leaving and reported that he appeared to be intoxicated.
Police ID Suspect and Officers involved in Hines Rd. Shooting

Upon arrival, officers observed a male and female walking who matched the provided descriptions. Officers gave commands for Leon Quintana (27) to place his hands on his head and walk backward toward them. During the encounter, Mr. Quintana hesitated and shifted his movements while officers continued giving commands. He then produced a firearm and fired a shot toward officers, striking an officer’s patrol car. A second shot was also fired.
2 Year Old Reunited with Father, Mother Arrested

A complex investigation began, tracking Ms. Salazar across multiple states with cooperation from several law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, that concluded last week when Ms. Salazar was arrested on her warrant and the child was returned to New Mexico where he is now with Mr. West.
Candidates File to Run in the NM June 2nd Primary

These candidates have filed to run in the New Mexico Primary on June 2, 2026. We are only listing candidates in CONTESTED races.