City settles for $20 million after police officer kills unarmed woman

In the United States, specifically in New Mexico, the family of Teresa Gomez reached a $20 million settlement with the city of Las Cruces following her fatal shooting by police officer Felipe Hernandez. The tragic incident occurred on October 3, 2023, when Hernandez shot Gomez multiple times after approaching her vehicle, which he claimed was parked in an area associated with trespassing. The officer, who was on duty and riding a bicycle at the time, engaged in a tense interaction with Gomez and a passenger. During this interaction, Hernandez threatened Gomez, stating she would face significant consequences if she did not comply with his orders. Hernandez questioned Gomez about her presence in the vehicle and demanded that she step out. The situation escalated when he recognized the passenger as someone wanted for various offenses. Amidst this chaotic encounter, Gomez attempted to leave the scene, prompting Hernandez to fire at least three shots into the car. She succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after at a hospital. In January of the following year, Hernandez was charged with second-degree murder for the shooting, a decision that came after an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the event. The city confirmed that Hernandez's actions were severe enough to warrant criminal charges, leading to his dismissal from the police department. He has pleaded not guilty and is set to face trial on June 2, 2025. The settlement reached with Gomez's family, while significant, was clarified by city officials as not indicative of Hernandez's criminal guilt. They expressed sorrow over Gomez's death, emphasizing that they aim to ensure that similar tragedies do not happen in the future. Attorney Shannon Kennedy, representing Gomez's family, highlighted their profound grief while expressing gratitude for the acknowledgment of the injustice of her death by the city. The incident has raised concerns and calls for reform regarding police conduct and accountability in law enforcement across the nation.