Boy, 13, Injured in Shooting

Las Cruces police have arrested a 13-year-old boy suspected of shooting his friend, also 13, Monday evening at a home on the 2900 block of Petunia Lane.

The 13-year-old victim was airlifted to University Medical Center of El Paso in critical condition with a gunshot wound to the back of his head. The suspect, a frequent runaway who has been known to possess firearms, was located and detained by police soon after the incident.

Shortly before 10:30 p.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, Las Cruces police were dispatched to the report of a gunshot victim at a home on Petunia Lane. While en route to the scene, police learned the parents of the victim were attempting to transport their son to the hospital.

Police met the vehicle on Picacho Avenue where officers, fire and ambulance personnel rendered aid. The boy was subsequently airlifted to El Paso.

Officers located the 13-year-old suspect near Picacho Middle School where he was detained. Police have also located the firearm believed to be used in the crime.

The 13-year-old suspect, who police will not publicly identify because of his age, currently faces charges of negligent use of a deadly weapon and minor in possession of a deadly weapon. The Juvenile Probation Office has authorized detention of the suspect.

The investigation is ongoing and additional charges are possible.