LAS CRUCES, NM – The man responsible for Wednesday’s SWAT callout and partial evacuation of the WoodSpring Suites on south Triviz Drive was located and taken into custody.
Oscar Angel Valenzuela, 22, was wanted on a warrant for three counts of violating terms of his probation. He was taken into custody shortly after 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 12.
Las Cruces police learned Valenzuela was likely in a room at the WoodSpring Suites. Police had reason to believe he might be armed. About 11 a.m., officers surrounded the room in question but received no response from inside. Out of an abundance of caution, nearby rooms were evacuated and other guests were asked to shelter in place.
Police made repeated announcements for Valenzuela to exit but those announcements were not answered.
Shortly after 1 p.m., Valenzuela was taken into custody without further incident. The SWAT team deployed at least two audible diversionary devices, but no shots were discharged and no injuries were reported during the incident.
New Mexico State Police and New Mexico State University Police assisted in the warrant service and arrest. A portion of Triviz Drive was temporarily closed during the operation.