Update – Authorities say the suspect has been taken into custody without incident.

Original – The New Mexico State Police is currently searching for a suspect who shot at a state trooper on Monday. NMSP reports that a police officer in District 10 was traveling east on Pinon Hills around 7:32 p.m. on August 19, 2024.

The officer observed a black Chrysler traveling west at a high rate of speed. The officer attempted to stop the vehicle. As he was maneuvering to stop, the driver of the Chrysler allegedly exited the vehicle armed with an AR-15 style rifle.

The suspect, 40-year-old Fernando Leon Silva, allegedly fired at least 50 rounds in the direction of the officer. The officer’s vehicle was struck. Following the shooting, the officer made a U-turn and attempted to pursue the suspect until his vehicle became disabled.

At this time, Fernando Leon Silva is not in custody. He has been charged with Murder in the Second Degree – Attempt, Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer, Shooting at or From a Motor Vehicle, and two counts of Aggravated Fleeing a Law Enforcement Officer.

Anyone who sees Silva is asked to call NMSP at 505-841-9256 or 911.