Josiah Perrault Obituary, Death – The Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) has identified the individual fatally shot during an officer-involved incident earlier this month as 18-year-old Josiah Perrault. According to a news release issued on Monday, Perrault was killed during a police response that took place on the morning of May 8.
Authorities reported that the shooting occurred around 6:30 a.m. in the 900 block of Walnut Street, located in a residential area of Las Cruces. Another individual was also injured during the incident, though police confirmed that his wounds were not life-threatening. That person’s identity has not yet been released.
The LCPD has provided limited information about the circumstances surrounding the incident. No details have been made public regarding what led to the police encounter, the events that preceded the use of deadly force, or the actions of the individuals involved. The department stated that further information would be shared in due time.
To offer more clarity on the situation, police plan to hold a press conference at Las Cruces City Hall on Tuesday, May 20, at 11:30 a.m. The briefing is expected to provide an update on the ongoing investigation, including additional facts and possibly the release of any relevant video footage or witness statements. The decision to schedule the press conference more than a week after the incident stems from the need to complete interviews with witnesses and gather more evidence before addressing the public.
Additionally, LCPD leadership, including Chief Jeremy Story, will be out of town during this week attending events in Washington, D.C., as part of National Police Week—a time designated to honor law enforcement personnel across the country. Their absence was another reason cited for postponing the news conference until the following week.
The shooting is being investigated by the Officer-involved Incident Task Force, a multi-agency team specifically designated to handle police-involved shootings and other critical incidents. This task force is composed of investigators from several law enforcement agencies, including the New Mexico State Police, the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office, New Mexico State University Police, and the Las Cruces Police Department itself. The collaborative approach is intended to ensure transparency and thoroughness, especially in cases involving police use of force.
While the public awaits further details, the community is left with many unanswered questions. The announcement of Perrault’s death has prompted conversations among residents regarding policing practices, the use of force, and accountability. The identity and condition of the second person injured remain undisclosed, and it is unclear whether he played a role in the events that unfolded or was a bystander.
Officials have not stated how many officers were involved, whether any officers have been placed on administrative leave (a standard protocol following officer-involved shootings), or if body camera footage exists from the incident.
Officer-involved shootings often spark public concern and draw attention to departmental policies and training. In light of this, many are hoping that next week’s press conference will provide transparency and clarify whether proper procedures were followed.
The family of Josiah Perrault has not made any public statements since the news of his death was confirmed. It remains unknown whether legal representation or community advocacy groups have stepped in on behalf of the family.
While the police have emphasized the importance of a complete investigation before releasing details, some community members have called for quicker disclosures and more immediate transparency. Incidents like these often leave lasting impacts on the public’s perception of local law enforcement, and the department’s handling of this investigation could play a significant role in shaping that relationship moving forward.
As of now, investigators continue their work collecting witness accounts, forensic evidence, and reviewing any recordings or documentation relevant to the case. Once the investigative phase concludes, findings are expected to be turned over to prosecutors for legal review to determine whether the use of force was justified under New Mexico law.
Until then, Las Cruces officials have urged the public to remain patient and refrain from speculation until all facts are gathered and verified. The upcoming press conference is anticipated to be a key moment in providing more context and helping the community understand what led to this tragic event.
For now, the city mourns the death of a young man whose life ended during a brief but fatal encounter with law enforcement. The coming days are likely to bring both answers and renewed calls for clarity, justice, and accountability in officer-involved incidents.
