Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect, a 53-year-old male from Shiprock, intentionally targeted the victim, a 40-year-old female Walmart employee from Farmington, based on their prior relationship.
From Farmington Police:
September 19, 2024
At approximately 12:31 p.m., officers responded to reports of gunfire in the parking lot of the West Main Walmart. Preliminary investigation indicates that the suspect, a 53-year-old male from Shiprock, intentionally targeted the victim, a 40-year-old female Walmart employee from Farmington, based on their prior relationship. The suspect had entered the victim's vehicle, at which point the suspect shot her before fatally turning the gun on himself.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The female victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to San Juan Regional Medical Center, where she was reported to be in stable condition at the time of transport.
As this is an active investigation, we will provide updates as new information becomes available. The names of the individuals involved are being withheld pending notification of their families.
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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.
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.
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