18-year-old has died following a police shooting in Las Cruces, sparking questions and a multi-agency investigation. Josiah Perrault, just 18 years old, was identified as the young man fatally shot by police during a confrontation early in the morning on May 8, 2025. The incident happened around 6:30 a.m. in the 900 block of Walnut Street, but so far, few details have been released about what led to the deadly encounter.
Authorities have confirmed that another male was also involved in the incident and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The shooting is now under investigation by the Officer-Involved Incident Task Force, which is made up of personnel from the Las Cruces Police Department, New Mexico State Police, the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, and New Mexico State University Police. Their job is to collect all available evidence and speak with witnesses. Once their investigation is complete, the findings will be turned over to the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office for further review.
A public update was initially expected sooner, but the city has delayed its press conference until 11:30 a.m. on Monday, May 20. City officials cited scheduling conflicts, including Las Cruces Police Chief Jeremy Story’s attendance at National Police Week events in Washington, D.C. The press briefing will be held at the City Hall Council Chambers at 700 N. Main Street.
As the community waits for answers, attention remains focused on what unfolded that morning and how officials will respond.
