NEW MEXICO – Newly released dashcam footage has revealed the heart-wrenching final moments of New Mexico State Police Officer Darian Jarrott, who was killed in the line of duty during what should have been a routine traffic stop. The incident, which occurred on February 4 along Interstate 10, has sent shockwaves through the community and reignited conversations about the dangers law enforcement officers face every day.
The Routine Stop That Turned Deadly
The dashcam video begins with Officer Jarrott pulling over a white Chevy pickup truck for having overly dark tinted windows — a seemingly minor traffic violation. The officer approaches the passenger side of the vehicle with calm professionalism.
Inside the truck was Omar Felix Cueva, a 39-year-old man with a lengthy and violent criminal history, according to state police. The footage shows a polite exchange between the two men. Cueva hands over his paperwork and, when asked, admits there is a firearm in the vehicle.
“You mind if I take it off you for my safety?” Jarrott is heard asking, keeping his voice steady and professional.
Moments later, Jarrott asks Cueva to step out of the truck and walk with him to the patrol car so he can run a background check. This is the point where everything changes.
A Sudden Burst of Violence
As soon as Cueva steps out of the pickup, he is seen holding an AR-15-style rifle. Without warning, he opens fire on Officer Jarrott at close range. The officer’s startled cry can be heard as he falls to the ground, mortally wounded.
Police say Cueva fired multiple rounds before fleeing the scene at high speed. The dashcam footage ends with Jarrott lying motionless on the roadside — a haunting image that underscores the suddenness and brutality of the attack.
A 40-Mile Pursuit Ends in Gunfire
After the shooting, Cueva led officers on a 40-mile high-speed chase along Interstate 10. During the pursuit, he reportedly fired at officers, forcing them to return fire. The chase ended in a dramatic shootout in which Cueva was killed.
Another state police officer was wounded during the confrontation but survived and is expected to make a full recovery.
State police confirmed that Cueva had an extensive criminal record that included violent offenses and drug trafficking. Investigators believe he was en route to a drug deal at the time of the stop.
Remembering Officer Jarrott
Officer Darian Jarrott, a five-year veteran of the New Mexico State Police, is remembered as a dedicated public servant, a loving father, and a man who brought positivity to every situation.
“Even when there was a situation that was tough, the guy was always smiling,” said State Police Chief Robert Thornton during a press conference following Jarrott’s death. “He was the kind of officer every department hopes to have — professional, compassionate, and committed to protecting others.”
Colleagues, friends, and members of the community have since gathered at vigils across the state to honor Jarrott’s memory. Flags were flown at half-staff, and hundreds of people lined the streets for his funeral procession.
Impact on the Law Enforcement Community
The release of the dashcam footage has sparked renewed conversations about officer safety during traffic stops — a routine part of police work that can quickly turn deadly.
Experts say incidents like this highlight the importance of proper training, backup support, and situational awareness. Some lawmakers are even calling for additional resources to help officers deal with potentially dangerous encounters, including better body armor, improved communication systems, and mental health support after traumatic events.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic death of Officer Jarrott has left a lasting mark on New Mexico. For many, the video serves as a stark reminder of the risks police officers take every day to keep the public safe.
Local residents have expressed a mix of grief and anger. “It’s heartbreaking to watch,” said Maria Lopez, a Las Cruces resident. “He was just doing his job, and his life was taken in such a senseless way.”
Authorities have urged the public to honor Jarrott’s sacrifice by supporting law enforcement and working to reduce violence in their communities.
This story continues to resonate far beyond New Mexico, as law enforcement agencies nationwide review their policies and procedures in light of this tragedy. Officer Jarrott’s name will be remembered not just for the way he died, but for the dedication and courage with which he served.
