The Albuquerque Police Department has released bodycam footage of the fatal shooting of a 19-year-old armed robbery suspect, Gabriel Romero, on December 12. The video, made public on December 21, aims to address public questions about the incident, which is one of three officer-involved shootings by the department in six weeks.
Officer Doug Moore, who has been with the department since 2003, stated that he shot Romero after the suspect pointed a gun at him. The bodycam footage does not show the moment of the shooting, as the camera was facing another officer who ran in the opposite direction when shots were fired. However, audio captures Moore shouting and firing multiple rounds before ordering Romero to put his hands up.
Police had been pursuing Romero after a woman reported being robbed at gunpoint by a man in a red sweatshirt. Officers tracked him to a backyard where they also responded to reports of a dog being shot. The dog, named Bartleby, was found with gunshot wounds. Romero was found with a stolen gun, according to police.
After the shooting, Moore appeared distressed, dropping items and asking colleagues to leave him alone. He was placed on paid administrative leave, though it is unclear if he has returned to duty. Police Chief Michael Geier defended the officers' actions, stating they face dangerous situations and put their lives on the line for the public.
