‘A blow to law enforcement’: Las Cruces City Council holds moment of silence for slain NMSP officer

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico - The Las Cruces City Council on Monday held a brief moment of silence for the slain New Mexico State Police officer and the Las Cruces police officer injured in the attack.

“What a kind and good individual he was," said Councilwoman Kasandra Gandara, who represents district one. "This is definitely a blow to law enforcement."

“It’s a sacrifice to be in that uniform and do that job when things like this can happen," said Councilman Gabe Vasquez, who represents district three.

After the fatal Deming attack on NMSP Office Darian Jarrott on Thursday, a Las Cruces police officer was injured in the Las Cruces shootout with the same suspect.

“It's the service and sacrifice that our officers make every day," said Councilwoman Tessa Abeyta-Stuve, who represents district two. "Very big challenges and consequences can come from it.”

The Las Cruces Police Department has not confirmed the identity of the officer. Fallen NMSP Officer, Darian Jarrott, 28, had three children and a fourth on the way.

“I just want to tell you your son is a hero and he put his life on the line to protect those people that he didn’t even know," said Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima.

"Our hero has fallen," said Gabriella Jarrott on Saturday, adding that "he will forever be a hero to his children and the community. He wore the badge proudly."