Santa Fe, N.M.: A deadly chain of events unfolded early Saturday morning after a routine traffic stop ended in gunfire involving 36-year-old Randall Brian Lopez.
The incident started around 4 a.m. on April 18 near the intersection of Agua Fria and San Felipe. A Santa Fe County sheriff’s deputy attempted to stop a motorcycle for speeding. The rider did not stop and instead took off.
A short time later, the same motorcycle was spotted again near a bike path close to the Vista Linda Apartments at 6332 Entrada Del Milagro. The rider then moved into the apartment complex parking area and tried to escape through a corridor toward Paseo Del Sol.
The deputy followed with emergency lights on, got out of the patrol vehicle, and chased the rider on foot. The pursuit ended when the deputy caught up, and both the rider and motorcycle went down during the confrontation.
Investigators say Randall Brian Lopez then pulled out a firearm and fired at the deputy. The shot missed. The deputy immediately returned fire and struck Lopez.
Other deputies rushed in and tried to give emergency aid while waiting for paramedics. Lopez was later pronounced dead at the scene despite those efforts.
Officials confirmed the deputy was not hit by bullets but did suffer facial burns believed to be caused by muzzle flash during the exchange. Authorities also said the firearm used by Lopez had been reported stolen.
