From KOAT-TV ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —
Jaremy Smith has changed his plea in the fatal shooting of New Mexico State Police officer Justin Hare.
Smith changed his plea to guilty to five felonies in a federal court hearing on January 17. Those charges are carjacking resulting in death, kidnapping, felon in possession of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and an additional firearm charge.
Federal court documents say Smith killed Hare on March 15, 2024 when Officer Hare was dispatched to help a stranded motorist on Interstate 40 near Tucumcari.
Dash camera and body camera video show Smith, dressed in a tan color jacket with a different color hood, exiting the driver’s area of a white BMW, walking to Officer Hare’s passenger window. The two talk about Smith’s flat tire, and Hare offers him a ride to town because no repair shops are open. The criminal complaint said Hare then asked Smith to walk to the front of his patrol vehicle. Immediately after, Smith shoots Hare, moves to the driver’s side of the car, and more gunfire is heard. Then, Smith gets in the driver’s seat of Hare’s car and drives away with officer Hare inside.
Officers found Hare’s patrol car near mile marker 304 on the north Frontage Road of I-40. According to the criminal complaint, the police car crashed, and Hare was found nearby with several gunshot wounds. He was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
After Smith fled the area of the crash, he was found in Albuquerque after a dayslong manhunt.
Sentencing for Smith will happen at a later date.
Justin Christopher Hare, a beloved member of the Logan community, passed away on March 15, 2024, in Tucumcari. Throughout his life, Justin contributed significantly to society through his dedication as a volunteer firefighter and his service with the New Mexico State Police for five years.
Born on January 31, 1989, at UNM Hospital in Albuquerque, Justin excelled in his academic pursuits. He graduated from Moriarty High School in 2008 and furthered his education by attending Central New Mexico Community College and Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Justin’s passion for helping others extended beyond his career; he found joy in coaching soccer and engaging in various outreach programs. His interests also included hunting, fishing, and flying aircraft.
Justin was a pillar of strength within the community and was actively involved in various organizations such as the New Mexico State Police Association, where he held the position of Treasurer and the Fraternal Order of Police. Known for his unwavering commitment to his family, Justin’s commitment to his family was unwavering; he was known as the best family man and an exceptional father.
Justin leaves behind a legacy of love and courage that will forever be cherished by those who knew him. He is survived by his father Jim Hare, mother Terry Hare, Daizzare Quintana (the love of his life), daughters Juliann Hare and Caydence Hare, with another child on the way. He is also survived by his brother Brandon Hare, sister-in-law Amanda Hare, niece Austin Hare, nephews Brantley Hare, Colt Hare, Daylyn Hare, and niece Yoonhee Quintana. He was preceded in death by his older brother JC Hare, grandfather Charles Miller and great-grandparents.
Justin Christopher Hare will be remembered as a hero in his community—a dedicated individual always willing to extend a helping hand to those in need. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched with kindness and compassion.
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