Officer Horst Harold Woods, 46, was shot and killed on January 10, 1996, while on duty at the New Mexico VA Medical Center in Albuquerque. Woods approached a man kneeling beside the officer’s patrol car; as Woods moved to the opposite side of the vehicle the man stood, exchanged words with him and then shot Woods in the back of the head as Woods turned away.

The suspect was arrested later the same day by Air Force Security Police Law Enforcement Officers from Kirtland Air Force Base. At arrest the individual was carrying two extra fully loaded magazines, an 18-inch bowie knife and a long-barreled Derringer loaded with two shotgun shells.

Officer Woods’ death prompted review of safety protocols and equipment for VA police officers. If anyone has information about the shooting or knew Officer Woods, please share what you know.