July 21, 2022
At approximately 7:12 a.m., the Santa Fe Police Department responded to the area of Water Street and West De Vargas Street in reference to a call of gunshots fired.
As officers were enroute to the location, a 38-year-old male was picked up by medics and transported to Christus St. Vincent Hospital.
The male was said to have sustained non-life-threatening injuries as a result of having been shot.
Phillip J. Mestas (48 years of age) has been identified as the shooter.
Mr. Mestas has an active warrant for his arrest with the charges of: Attempt to Commit a Felony to-wit Murder First Degree, and Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon.
It is believed that a day prior to the shooting, the victim and suspect had engaged in a physical dispute, during which the suspect brandished a firearm.
It is believed that today, the suspect observed the victim walking, at which time the suspect brandished a firearm, fired at the victim, and fled the scene on a bicycle.
Mr. Mestas was last seen traveling west on W. De Vargas Street, pushing a white mountain bike.
Mr. Mestas was wearing a dark shirt, dark shorts, knee-high white socks, and was carrying a dark colored backpack.
Mr. Mestas is considered armed and dangerous. Mr. Mestas’ whereabouts are unknown at this time.
This case remains under active investigation, and as additional information becomes available it will be provided. Case number 2022-007427.
If anyone knows the whereabouts of Mr. Mestas or sees him, they are asked to call 911 or (505) 428-3710.
Anyone with information on this incident is asked to please contact Detective Javier Vigil at jjvigil1@santafenm.gov or 505-955-5412.
Media Contact: Lieutenant David Webb, dwebb@santafenm.gov or at 505-955-5257.
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