Patrick Wheeler, 48, was shot and killed on the night of August 9, 2025, along New Mexico Highway 14 near Madrid, in the Cerrillos area. First responders found Wheeler with a gunshot wound; he was pronounced dead at the scene. The New Mexico State Police have classified the death as a homicide and closed a section of the highway while investigators searched the area.

Early reports indicate another person was with Wheeler at the time and was not injured; that individual’s connection to the shooting and any information they may have are central to the ongoing probe. As of August 11, 2025, no arrests have been announced, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no motive has been released.

Anyone who was in the Madrid or Highway 14 area on the night of August 9, 2025, or who has information about Patrick Wheeler’s movements or the person who was with him, is asked to contact the New Mexico State Police.