Armed Suspect Fatally Shot by Albuquerque Police Officers Inside Busy Supermarket

Albuquerque, New Mexico - In an incident that unfolded on June 24, 2023, at approximately 3:30 p.m., authorities discovered 41-year-old Mark Peter unconscious in a vehicle parked at the AutoZone across from the bustling marketplace. The Albuquerque Police Department (APD) ran a routine license plate check on the vehicle, revealing several outstanding felony warrants for Peter's arrest. Law enforcement officers made repeated attempts to peacefully coax Peter out of the vehicle, but he remained unresponsive. Subsequently, when Peter abruptly awakened and attempted to flee, the police immobilized his vehicle by deflating the tires.

In a compelling turn of events, video footage captured officers pursuing Peter as he sought refuge within the premises of El Mezquite Market. As two officers tried to subdue Peter using tasers, he brandished a firearm and opened fire on the law enforcement personnel. In response, the officers, under imminent threat, discharged their firearms in an exchange of gunfire. The harrowing situation unfolded within the presence of numerous individuals who were awaiting checkout at the time of Peter's entry. Reportedly, Peter fired a total of 13 shots at the officers, prompting them to retaliate with 45 rounds. Tragically, Peter succumbed to his injuries, while miraculously, no innocent bystanders sustained harm during the intense shootout.

Authorities revealed that Peter had a prior criminal record, which encompassed multiple felony warrants, including one related to drug trafficking. Notably, in April, Bernalillo County Sheriff's deputies discovered Peter unconscious in his vehicle, leading to his subsequent arrest on drug-related charges. Investigators secured a search warrant for the vehicle and discovered both a firearm and illicit drugs within its confines. The circumstances surrounding Peter's actions at El Mezquite Market are currently under investigation.