TAOS COUNTY, NM — Sheriff’s Office Investigates Fatal Shooting of Leroy Rodriguez Near Ranchos Post Office
TAOS COUNTY, NM – A homicide investigation is underway following the fatal shooting of 40-year-old Leroy Rodriguez on Monday, June 9, near the Ranchos post office on Slate Road 68. The Taos County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) has confirmed that deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the area and are actively seeking leads in what has quickly become one of the region’s most serious violent incidents this year.
According to TCSO officials, the call reporting shots fired came in earlier in the day, prompting deputies to respond swiftly to the scene, which was located near a public transit stop along Slate Road 68. Upon arrival, law enforcement encountered a male subject aboard an RTD (Regional Transit District) bus, a local public transportation vehicle known throughout northern New Mexico.
Deputies soon discovered that the man, later identified as Leroy Rodriguez, had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Life-saving measures were initiated, and Rodriguez was transported to Holy Cross Hospital in Taos. Despite the efforts of first responders and medical staff, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
The scene remained active for several hours as investigators combed the area for evidence, interviewed witnesses, and secured the RTD bus for forensic processing. A possible suspect vehicle has since been located and seized, though as of Monday evening, no arrests had been made, and the shooter remains at large.
TCSO has not released any further identifying details about the suspect or the circumstances leading up to the shooting. Investigators have not yet determined whether the shooting was targeted or random, and are treating the case as an active homicide investigation. Authorities are urging members of the public who may have seen or heard anything unusual around the time of the shooting to come forward.
“This is a tragic event, and we are using all available resources to find out what happened and bring the person responsible to justice,” said a spokesperson for the Taos County Sheriff’s Office. “We know this has shaken the community, and we ask anyone who may have information to please speak up.”
The quiet rural area near the Ranchos de Taos post office, where the shooting occurred, is generally known for its peaceful surroundings and close-knit community. The sudden outbreak of violence has left many residents stunned and concerned for their safety. The RTD bus system, which serves a wide swath of northern New Mexico, including Taos County, is frequently used by residents for commuting and travel between rural communities, making the incident especially alarming due to the potential risk to other passengers.
As of now, investigators have not publicly confirmed whether the incident was recorded on any of the bus’s security cameras, though they have indicated that they are reviewing all available footage and evidence.
Friends and family of Leroy Rodriguez are mourning the loss of a man they say was known for his friendly demeanor and deep roots in the community. Vigils and social media tributes began circulating Monday evening, with many calling for peace and justice.
Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the Taos County Sheriff’s Office at (575) 758-2217. Callers may remain anonymous.
Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. The Taos County Sheriff’s Office assures the public that every effort is being made to ensure the safety of residents and bring resolution to this devastating incident.