APD shoots man in undercover drug deal

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - An Albuquerque police officer shot a man Monday after a staged undercover drug deal turned violent, according to Deputy Chief Paul Feist.

Feist said officers got a call about drug dealings in the area of Coors and Iliff. The Narcotics unit and undercover detectives planned a hand-to-hand buy with two individuals at the Furr's Restaurant parking lot near the intersection.

"The investigation led to the offenders, the individuals, getting into an undercover police car where the actual transaction took place," said Feist.

Officers in police gear approached the car to arrest the suspects, said Feist, when one man pulled a handgun and pointed it at officers.

"The officer inside the vehicle, as well as the officers approaching got into a struggle with the individual," said Feist.

An officer outside the car then fired one shot, hitting the man in the chest, said Feist. The suspect is at UNM Hospital in critical condition.

Westbound Iliff to Coors was closed for hours as police investigated. Detectives detained and interviewed several people. As of Monday evening, three people were still being questioned.

Police said they won't release names of the suspects or officers involved until after the investigation is complete. Officers are also reviewing lapel camera video of the incident, according to Feist.

Friends of the people involved showed up to the scene looking for answers.

One woman told KRQE News 13 she came to pick up her roommate who was meeting her brother at the restaurant and was surprised to find her in the back of a cop car.

“She said she was going to get some money and her food stamp card that's it. Other than that, I know nothing else,” the woman said. “I know she's doing good, she's not doing drugs…she's going to school, she's only 18. I want to know if they're going to release her to me because she's not doing anything.”

Another man claimed his son was involved but said he didn't know how.

"He's not involved in drugs. He's not a gang member, really good kid," said Richard Turrietta.

One restaurant customer said there were about 60 people inside but no one heard shots.

The customers were kept inside for about a half hour before being allowed to leave. However, the parking lot was closed, so they were unable to get their car, according to one restaurant customer.

Police are expected to give another update on the shooting on Tuesday.