Moments after notifying FPD dispatch of the investigative traffic stop, the officer called out "shots fired" over the radio. Other FPD officers arrived on scene to find the male driver, identified as Frankie L. Anchondo (35) of Aztec deceased. Both the officer and the female victim did not sustain any injuries during the incident. FPD secured the scene and requested New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau to investigate the incident.
From New Mexico State Police:
On Wednesday, December 20, 2017, The New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau was requested by the Farmington Police Department (FPD) to investigate an Officer Involved Shooting (OIS).
When NMSP Agents arrived they learned that around 6:00 p.m. an officer with FPD was on patrol in the area of U.S. 64 when he observed a black pickup pass him. The officer saw a female hanging out of the passenger side window screaming for help. The officer alerted FPD dispatch and then initiated an investigative traffic stop on the vehicle.
Moments after notifying FPD dispatch of the investigative traffic stop, the officer called out "shots fired" over the radio. Other FPD officers arrived on scene to find the male driver, identified as Frankie L. Anchondo (35) of Aztec deceased. Both the officer and the female victim did not sustain any injuries during the incident. FPD secured the scene and requested New Mexico State Police Investigations Bureau to investigate the incident.
The details leading up to the officer discharging their weapon as well as the officers information will be released after all interviews have been conducted and evidence at the scene has be processed. This is an ongoing investigation with no additional information available at this time. When more information becomes available it will be released by the New Mexico State Police.
The Sheriff's Office Traffic Reconstruction Team responded to conduct the investigation into the fatal crash. Two persons on bicycles (an adult male and an adult female) were struck by a 2006 Ford Ranger driven by Jaron Todecheeny of Aztec, NM. Both bicyclists died at the scene.
As Vice President of Diversity Affairs at FLC, Heather Shotton has played a pivotal role in advancing a culture of belonging and enhancing student access and success. In addition to her work in diversity affairs, she serves as Acting Dean of Student Engagement, overseeing more than 70 staff members supporting student well-being and success.
The initial call was received at 5:23 AM. The individual was identified from video surveillance. The male was contacted by Durango Police Department Patrol and is now in custody. He has been identified as Joe Brinkerhoff, a resident of the City of Durango. Due to a prior incident, Joe Brinkerhoff was trespassed from the property and his Rec Center privileges were suspended.
After a thorough and ongoing investigation by detectives and working with the district attorney's office, a thorough review of the case was conducted, and the decision to proceed with criminal charges was made. A warrant was issued to charge Heather Fernandez-Hoefer. She was taken into custody without incident on April 1, 2025.
Upon arrival, deputies made contact with multiple individuals including juveniles and young adults and located a deceased individual identified as Samuell Tariq Liggins, age 20.