Farmington Shooting: Suspect Left Note

Suspect Beau Wilson was found to have been wearing a bulletproof vest at the onset of the event, providing him with additional protection. However, prior to his encounter with Farmington Police officers, he deliberately removed the vest.  There was also a note found on Beau’s body. 

From Farmington Police:

Wednesday, May 17, 2023

      Following the tragic active shooter incident that occurred in Farmington, NM on May 15, 2023, new details have emerged shedding light on the situation. Authorities have uncovered crucial information that provides further insight into the events that unfolded during this harrowing
incident.  During the investigation, it was discovered that suspect Beau Wilson had amassed a substantial amount of ammunition within his residence. Law enforcement officials found approximately 1,400 rounds of ammunition stored within the suspect's home. In addition, authorities identified ten other firearms of varying calibers scattered throughout the residence. These weapons, accessible to Beau, did not
belong to him.


Beau was found to have been wearing a bulletproof vest at the onset of the event, providing him with additional protection. However, prior to his encounter with our officers, he deliberately removed the vest. Furthermore, a loaded 9mm and .22 caliber pistol were discovered in the vicinity. The AR-15 rifle had rounds already loaded in the chamber, with an accompanying magazine containing additional rounds. In a significant development, investigators learned that the suspect had purchased three additional magazines just two days prior to the incident.

There was also a note found on Beau’s body. The Farmington Police Department, in cooperation with local and federal law enforcement agencies,
is actively investigating this incident to ascertain all relevant details and motives behind the tragedy.


Our priority remains supporting the affected officers, their families, and the community during this challenging time.  We extend our deepest condolences to all those affected by this horrific incident. Our thoughts are with the injured officers as they continue their recovery, and we remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community.


The Farmington Police Department will continue to provide updates on the investigation as new information becomes available. We urge anyone with additional information related to this incident to come forward and assist law enforcement in their efforts.

More from Local News

  • KSJE to Livestream Balloon Rally Ascensions

    For those unable to attend in person, KSJE will provide expansive live event coverage. Spectators can tune into KSJE’s live morning launch streaming broadcasts on Facebook and YouTube, bringing the excitement of the mass ascensions directly to viewers across the Four Corners region.

  • Three Die in Newcomb area Flood

    Two adults and a juvenile were found to have drowned and were pronounced deceased. The incident remains under investigation.

  • Assault Suspect Fatally Shot in Kirtland

    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.

  • Former Dallas Cowboy Shiyazh Pete visits Alma Mater: Shiprock High School

    Shiyazh Pete went on from Shiprock High to play college football at New Mexico State University and the University of Kentucky before signing and training with the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent. He returned to Shiprock High School to share what he learned along the way and to encourage Chieftain students and athletes as they begin a new season.

  • Judge: SunRay Can't Move Horse Racing & Casino to Clovis

    In February, San Juan County Commissioners voted to seek judicial review of the New Mexico Racing Commission’s decision to authorize Western Gaming to move its racing license to Clovis, NM. The Racing Commission’s decision, at the request of Western Gaming, would have ended San Juan County’s long heritage of horse racing at a county-owned facility.

  • Ground Broken for new STEAM Education Building at Navajo Prep

    The new Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Facility will provide expanded space for Navajo Prep’s International Baccalaureate program and career-focused pathways.

On KSJE Now:

KSJE Radio App

Get the KSJE Radio App

  • Available on the App Store
  • Available on Google Play

Today's Weather

  • Farmington, NM

    Sunny

    High: 75°F | Low: 48°F

  • Durango, CO

    Sunny

    High: 72°F | Low: 41°F

  • Shiprock, NM

    Sunny

    High: 79°F | Low: 50°F

  • Cortez, CO

    Sunny

    High: 79°F | Low: 45°F

  • Santa Fe, NM

    Sunny

    High: 68°F | Low: 41°F