Dashcam Footage Sheds Light on Fatal Shooting of Officer Darian Jarrott
Newly released dashcam footage has provided a clearer view of the events leading up to the tragic death of New Mexico State Police Officer Darian Jarrott during a traffic stop on February 4, 2021. The footage captures the harrowing moments when Jarrott was shot while performing his duties near Interstate 10 in Deming, New Mexico.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
According to authorities, Jarrott stopped a white Chevrolet pickup as part of a routine traffic enforcement. The driver, later identified as Omar Felix Cueva, exited the vehicle holding a firearm, and Jarrott was shot during the encounter. The dashcam footage shows Jarrott falling to the ground as gunfire erupted, while responding officers immediately moved to secure the scene.
Following the shooting, multiple law enforcement agencies, including the New Mexico State Police, Las Cruces Police, and U.S. Border Patrol, pursued Cueva along I-10. The pursuit ended after Cueva was involved in a shootout with officers and was fatally wounded. A Las Cruces police officer was also struck during the exchange but survived.
The incident prompted an internal review by the New Mexico State Police, which highlighted flaws in communication and tactical decisions during the traffic stop. Reports indicate that some intelligence regarding Cueva’s background and prior federal investigations had not been fully shared among the responding officers, raising questions about interagency coordination and procedures for high-risk encounters.
Officer Jarrott’s death had a profound impact on the law enforcement community and the public. He is survived by his wife, Gabriella, and their three children, with a fourth child expected at the time of his passing. The tragedy continues to serve as a reminder of the dangers officers face on duty and the importance of proper training and communication between agencies.
Authorities have called for ongoing reforms to improve officer safety and coordination during potentially dangerous stops. Jarrott’s legacy is honored by colleagues and community members alike, who remember him as a dedicated officer and loving family man.