Laguna Police Aides NMSP Recover a Stolen Firetruck

PUEBLO OF LAGUNA – Rio Rancho, New Mexico man Dennis L. Chavez was arrested on August 16 by the New Mexico State Police who were aided by the Pueblo of Laguna Police Department. Chavez went on an alleged crime spree across New Mexico before finally being caught due to the quick eyes of Laguna PD. Details of the situation are scarce, but around 8:06 a.m., the New Mexico State Police were contacted by the Laguna Police Department, who explained they were pursuing a stolen fire truck west on Interstate 40 near milepost 135. The firetruck was from Corrales, N.M.

NMSP joined in the pursuit near milepost 117, at this point another LPD officer joined the pursuit. Together, they deployed tire deflation devices by milepost 114. This did not stop Chavez, who was allegedly driving the stolen truck, because it continued to travel down Interstate 40.

Finally, Chavez pulled off exit 108, into the Dancing Eagle Casino property. Allegedly, Chavez crashed the firetruck into a wall at the gas station. Despite being surrounded by law enforcement, Chavez refused to acknowledge officers, who were ordering him to surrender peacefully. Officers rushed in and apprehended Chavez.

Chavez was booked into the Cibola County Correctional Center in Milan, N.M. He is being charged with one count of Receiving or Transferring a Stolen Motor Vehicle; one count of Aggravated Fleeing from a Law Enforcement Officer; one count of Resisting, Evading, or Obstruction of a Peace Officer; and one count of Criminal Damage to Property (Under $1,000). Chavez also had a felony arrest warrant for his arrest that was outstanding from the Second Judicial District Court in Albuquerque, N.M.