Suspect in New Mexico trooper shooting identified, linked to South Carolina woman found dead

QUAY COUNTY, New Mexico (KFDA) – A manhunt is underway for the man accused of killing a New Mexico State police officer.

The suspect has been identified as 32-year-old Jaremy Smith, of Marion, South Carolina.

New Mexico State Police has issued an arrest warrant for Smith, charging him with First Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, Shooting at or from a Motor Vehicle, Tampering with Evidence, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle, and Criminal Damage to Property.

Police say early Friday morning, Smith had a flat tire on I-40 near Tucumcari and officer Justin Hare was dispatched to assist.

When Hare arrived, Smith approached the passenger side window of the officer’s car.

Hare offered him a ride into town and that’s when police say Smith pulled out a gun and shot Hare.

Police say Smith walked to the driver’s side and shot the officer again, before pushing him into the passenger seat and driving away.

The patrol car was later found abandoned and Hare was found on the frontage road of I-40 near mile marker 312, he was transported to the hospital where he died.

In a press conference today, police say through investigation, police have learned the BMW that Smith had been driving belongs to a missing South Carolina woman who was found dead late Friday night.

The woman was a paramedic and has been identified as 52-year-old Phonesia Machado-Fore.

Police say Smith is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

If seen, call the New Mexico State Police at (505) 425-6771 or dial 911.

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