Police believe shooting suspect in Portales

Courtesy photo

Freedom New Mexico

Carlsbad police are asking for public help to find a suspect in a fatal shooting believed to be hiding in Portales.

Fernando Lopez, 36, is wanted on an open count of murder.

Carlsbad Sgt. David Gonzales said police have received credible reports Lopez is in Portales, where he is known to reside.

“He’s from there and his family’s there as well,” Gonzales said.

Sunday, Carlsbad police found the body of 38-year-old Rodolfo Murillo, who appeared to have been shot several times, according to a press release.

Through several interviews, Lopez surfaced as a suspect, the release said.

Gonzales said Roosevelt County law enforcement is assisting with the search.

Anyone with information can call the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Department, Eddy County Crimestoppers (575/887-1888) or Lt. Brian Burns at the Carlsbad Law Enforcement Center (575/885-2111, Ext. 222).