Police on Tuesday identified the gunman who allegedly killed three people and injured six others as 18-year-old Beau Wilson, a student at Farmington High School, who roamed his neighborhood Monday morning and fired three weapons at cars and people.
Two law enforcement officers were injured in the shooting near Dustin Avenue and Navajo Street in Farmington. Wilson was shot dead in a barrage of gunfire from four officers, police said.
At a news conference Tuesday afternoon, Deputy Chief Kyle Dowdy provided a timeline of events showing that officers were dispatched to 911 calls of shots fired at 10:57 a.m. Monday.
Four Farmington police officers arrived at the scene of the active shooting at 11:02 a.m. By 11:06 a.m., officers confronted Wilson, and Wilson and all four officers fired. One officer and Wilson were wounded almost simultaneously, Dowdy said.
Wilson was shot at least once and died at the scene, on the lawn of the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Dowdy added that the four officers involved in the confrontation were the only officers who fired their weapons.
Dowdy reiterated that police do not believe Wilson had specific targets or motives.
Deputy Chief Baric Crum identified the victims as Shirley Voita, 79, Melody Ivie, 73, and Gwendolyn Schofield, 97.
Ivie and Schofield were shot in their vehicle and died at the scene. Voita died at San Juan Regional Medical Center.
Four civilians were treated at the medical center. Their names and statuses were not released.
The injured officers were police Sgt. Rachel Discenza and New Mexico State Police officer Andreas Stamatiadas. Both have been released from the hospital and are recovering.
Discenza was one of four officers who confronted Wilson. Crum reported that she was shot in the pelvic area and was recovering. Stamatiadas was shot while driving to the scene, he said.
Farmington Chief of Police Steve Hebbe confirmed in a video statement Monday evening that the suspect fired at least three weapons, including an AR-style rifle.
Crum estimated that about 150 rounds were fired during the shooting, but investigators have not determined who fired each round.
Dowdy said Tuesday the AR-style rifle used in the shooting was legally purchased by Wilson in 2022. It is believed that he gained access to the two handguns used by way of family members, though how he got them has not yet been determined.
Whether those family members will face charges for Wilson’s use of the firearms is still being determined.
Crum noted that the recently passed New Mexico law referred to as Bennie’s Bill, which may hold adult gun owners criminally responsible when juveniles access firearms, does not apply to this case because the law has not been enacted yet and Wilson was 18 years old. Other laws might apply, Crum said.
Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández honored the victims of the shooting on the House floor Tuesday by observing a moment of silence. She was joined by the New Mexico delegation representatives.
Leger Fernández offered condolences for the “three beautiful souls lost,” as well as those who were wounded and traumatized by the mass shooting. She praised “the heroes who drove to danger to stop the violence” and the coordination of the agencies who responded.
Leger Fernández expressed her commitment to passing legislation to end gun violence, then led the House in a moment of silence.
Every day, somewhere in America, we are reminded that we don't yet live in a peaceful country.
— Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (@RepTeresaLF) May 16, 2023
Yesterday, that place was Farmington.
I held a moment of silence and prayer for the victims, and I recommit to passing legislation to end gun violence. pic.twitter.com/hfc1eSX31n
San Juan County Commission Chairman Steve Lanier said Tuesday he was “deeply saddened to hear about the tragic loss of life” and offered condolences to families of victims and the community.
“The events of May 15 will forever be ingrained in the fabric of San Juan County. … May the memories of those who have passed bring you comfort and may they rest in peace,” Lanier said. “I pray for speedy and complete recovery and healing for those injured in this attack.”
Lanier commended dispatchers, law enforcement, first responders and hospital staff for their coordination and quick response.
He added, “I am most grateful for the people of this community who come together in times of crisis. We rally around those who are in need and lift each other up in times of trouble. Hold dear to those you love, cherish their memories, and be kind to one another.”
A candlelight vigil was held for the victims Monday night at Hills Church in Farmington. City officials and religious leaders offered words of comfort to community member.
Farmington Mayor Duckett spoke at the vigil offering condolences and encouraged a focus on healing. Rev. Matt Mizell offered a prayer at the vigil and Rev. Randy Joslin encouraged community members to turn to their faith and to “let our light shine” in the face of tragedy.
Crisis resources:
New Mexico Crisis and Access Line: 988
Desert View Family Counseling: (505) 326-7878 (Option 1)
Totah Behavioral Health: (505) 564-4804
Farmington Community Health: (505) 326-4796
