Las Cruces Police Identify 18-Year-Old Josiah Perrault as Victim in Deadly Officer-Involved Shooting
LAS CRUCES, NM – The Las Cruces Police Department has confirmed the identity of the individual fatally shot by an officer early on the morning of May 8, 2025, as 18-year-old Josiah Perrault. The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 a.m. in the 900 block of Walnut Street, though authorities have provided limited information on the events leading up to the shooting.
In a statement released by the City of Las Cruces, officials revealed that a second male, believed to have been involved in the incident, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The shooting has prompted a multi-agency investigation led by the Officer-Involved Incident Task Force. This team is composed of investigators from the Las Cruces Police Department, New Mexico State Police, Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State University Police. The task force is charged with collecting evidence, conducting interviews with witnesses, and gathering other relevant information. Once the investigation is complete, all findings will be forwarded to the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office for further review and potential legal action.
Although the details surrounding the incident remain scarce, the investigation continues to be a focal point for local authorities. In the wake of the tragedy, city officials have confirmed that the press conference, which was initially expected to take place sooner, has been rescheduled. Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story, along with other department officials, are attending National Police Week in Washington, D.C., which has delayed the briefing. The press conference is now scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Monday, May 20, 2025, and will be held in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 700 N. Main Street.
The community and media are urged to be patient as the investigation unfolds. Las Cruces officials have committed to transparency throughout the process and will provide further updates as they become available. At this time, the investigation remains ongoing.
In a broader context, the incident has raised concerns over police-involved shootings in the region, further emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and accountability in law enforcement actions. The details surrounding Josiah Perrault’s death are expected to be examined with the utmost scrutiny as the task force works to uncover the circumstances that led to this tragic event.
As of now, there has been no further public comment regarding the specific factors that led to the officer’s decision to use deadly force. Witness statements, evidence, and other investigative leads will be key in understanding the situation and addressing questions surrounding the officer’s actions.
What We Know So Far
- Incident: Officer-involved shooting on May 8, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m. in the 900 block of Walnut Street.
- Deceased: Josiah Perrault, 18 years old.
- Injured: A second male individual with non-life-threatening injuries.
- Investigation: Led by the Officer-Involved Incident Task Force, including members from several local and state law enforcement agencies.
- Press Conference: Rescheduled for 11:30 a.m. on May 20, 2025, at City Hall.
As the investigation continues, further details are expected to emerge, with officials focusing on transparency and thoroughness in the process. The Las Cruces community and residents of surrounding areas are encouraged to stay informed through official updates.