Assault Suspect Fatally Shot in Kirtland

Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 10:56 AM

Deputies made multiple commands to stop and drop the knife, however, the suspect ignored the commands and continued moving towards the deputies with the knife. A deputy discharged his sidearm, striking the suspect. Immediate life-saving aid was rendered to the suspect, but he ultimately died at the scene. The Farmington Police Department is leading the investigation.

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

From the San Juan County Sheriff's Office

On 9/14/26 at approximately 8:37 pm, San Juan County Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to a domestic violence disturbance at the Dollar General store in Kirtland. As the deputies were interviewing the victim, the suspect came back inside the store. The suspect had armed himself with a knife and advanced towards the deputies with his knife raised above his head. Deputies made multiple commands to stop and drop the knife, however, the suspect ignored the commands and continued moving towards the deputies with the knife. A deputy discharged his sidearm, striking the suspect.

Immediate life-saving aid was rendered to the suspect, but he ultimately died at the scene. The Farmington Police Department is leading the investigation.

The San Juan County Sheriff’s Office will not be making any further comments regarding the investigation while it is active. The deputy involved has been placed on administrative leave.

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