Gunfire at Española Lowe’s: Burglary Suspect Shot by Police in Parking Lot, Shoppers Plunged into Lockdown

ESPAÑOLA, NM — April 10, 2025 — What began as a quiet afternoon of shopping quickly turned into a scene of panic and confusion as gunshots erupted outside the Lowe’s Home Improvement store in Española on Thursday. A burglary suspect, believed to be connected to a case in nearby Dixon, was shot by police in the store’s parking lot, triggering a sudden lockdown and significant police response.

Shoppers Take Cover as Gunshots Ring Out

Customers inside the store and its garden nursery were caught off guard when multiple rounds of gunfire were heard just after 1:00 p.m.

“I was in the nursery when I suddenly heard what sounded like three sets of gunshots, each with four or five rounds,” one witness recounted. “Within seconds, employees told us to get inside and locked the doors.”

Store staff acted swiftly, guiding customers into the main building for safety and locking down the premises. The lockdown lasted approximately 30 to 45 minutes, according to those inside, while police secured the scene.

The Incident Unfolds

According to the Rio Arriba County Sheriff’s Office, the shooting stemmed from an attempt to apprehend a suspect in connection with a burglary investigation in Dixon. Officers from the Ohkay Owingeh Police Department and Rio Arriba deputies located the individual in the Lowe’s parking lot, where an encounter quickly escalated.

“As officers attempted to take the suspect into custody, a confrontation occurred that resulted in an officer-involved shooting,” a sheriff’s department spokesperson confirmed.

The suspect was struck by gunfire. As of now, no details have been released regarding the suspect’s condition, and authorities have not confirmed whether the suspect was armed or fired any shots during the encounter. Crucially, no officers or civilians were injured in the incident.

Aftermath and Response

The New Mexico State Police are leading the ongoing investigation into the shooting. Meanwhile, the nursery section of the Lowe’s store remained closed for the rest of the day as investigators processed the scene.

A large police presence remained at the site into the afternoon, with patrol cars and crime scene tape cordoning off much of the parking lot. Witnesses expressed both fear and gratitude.

“I was scared, no doubt. But I’ve got to give credit to the Lowe’s staff—they kept things calm, got us inside quickly, and made sure we were safe,” said a customer who was at the store with their children.

Community Reaction

The incident has left many in the Española community shaken. Though relieved that no bystanders were injured, residents voiced concerns about the increasing violence spilling into public places.

Local law enforcement has asked for patience from the public as they piece together the full circumstances of the event. Counseling services are being offered to any Lowe’s employees or customers who experienced trauma from the incident.

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the suspect or the shooting to contact the New Mexico State Police.

Ongoing Investigation

As the investigation continues, officials are expected to release more details about the identity of the suspect, the events leading up to the shooting, and the decision to use force. Police have not indicated whether any surveillance footage will be made public.

This incident marks another reminder of the unpredictable nature of public safety encounters and highlights the importance of swift action and clear communication in times of crisis.