Authorities in Bernalillo County are actively searching for a suspect after a violent shooting left a woman critically injured while a child sat inside her car. The incident unfolded late this week at a Maverik gas station in southeast Albuquerque, drawing a large law enforcement response and raising concerns about community safety.
The Incident
Deputies with the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) were dispatched to the gas station after reports of shots fired. When they arrived, they discovered a chaotic and alarming scene: a woman suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest inside a vehicle, with a young child present at the time of the attack.
Although the woman’s exact condition has not been publicly released, officials confirmed that she was transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. The child, while unharmed physically, was taken into protective care after the incident. Authorities stressed that the child’s safety was a priority and that resources were being provided to ensure their well-being following the traumatic experience.
Suspect at Large
Deputies have not released a detailed description of the suspect but confirmed that the shooter fled the area before officers arrived. Law enforcement continues to search for leads, reviewing security footage from the gas station and nearby businesses in hopes of identifying the gunman.
Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Witnesses or residents who may have seen suspicious activity around the Maverik gas station are encouraged to call the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office or Crime Stoppers. Tips can be made anonymously.
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Community on Edge
Incidents like this highlight the growing concern about violent crime across Albuquerque and Bernalillo County. Residents who frequent the area expressed fear and frustration following the shooting. Gas stations, often busy with families and commuters, are generally seen as safe public spaces. The fact that a shooting occurred in broad daylight — with a child in the car — has sparked outrage in the community.
Parents in particular voiced worries about how close this tragedy came to affecting an innocent child. “It’s terrifying to think that you could be out with your kids and something like this could happen right next to you,” said one local resident who shops at the gas station regularly.
Law Enforcement Response
The Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that deputies remain dedicated to finding the person responsible and preventing further violence. Officials noted that the safety of children in these situations is especially concerning, and emphasized that swift action will be taken once the suspect is located.
While details remain scarce, investigators are exploring possible motives. Authorities have not confirmed whether the shooting was random or if the victim was specifically targeted. That uncertainty adds to community unease, as residents want to know whether this was an isolated incident or part of a broader pattern of violence.
Ongoing Investigation
Detectives are working closely with local businesses to gather video surveillance that may shed light on the suspect’s movements before and after the shooting. Forensic teams are also analyzing the scene for shell casings and other evidence that could help in identifying the weapon used.
In addition, investigators are interviewing potential witnesses who were present at the gas station during the incident. Even small details — such as the type of vehicle the suspect may have been driving or the direction they fled — could be critical to solving the case.
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Call for Public Assistance
Authorities are reminding residents that community involvement plays a major role in solving violent crimes. The Sheriff’s Office urged anyone who may have information, no matter how minor it may seem, to contact investigators. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers, which may offer rewards for information leading to an arrest.
Moving Forward
As the victim fights for recovery in the hospital, the Bernalillo County community is left shaken by the violence that unfolded in such a public space. While law enforcement continues its investigation, residents are calling for more proactive measures to address gun violence in the city.
For now, officials assure the public that they are doing everything possible to locate the suspect and bring justice for the victim and her child. Updates will be released as the investigation develops.
