Lawsuit Claims Police Negligence in Veteran's Suicide Case in Las Cruces

A wrongful death lawsuit has been filed against the city of Las Cruces, two police officers, and the Mesilla Valley Research Dispatch Authority following the 2025 suicide of Jacob Garcia, a 28-year-old Army veteran. The complaint alleges that after Garcia called 911 reporting his suicidal state and armed status, officers Hector Lopez and David Udero failed to approach his apartment or check on his welfare, instead remaining in their vehicles and dismissing emergency responders. Despite being in contact with his brother until shortly before his death, Garcia was not found until after the officers left the scene. The lawsuit seeks damages for negligence and civil rights violations under New Mexico law.

Key Details: • Jacob Garcia called 911 on April 2025, reporting suicidal intentions. • Officers did not approach his apartment and canceled emergency units. • Garcia communicated with his brother until 2:03 p.m. after officers left. • The lawsuit is filed in the Doña Ana County Third Judicial District Court.