On March 5, 1986, Patrolman Sherman L. Toler Jr., a 28-year-old New Mexico State Police officer with seven years’ service, was killed during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 in Tucumcari. After the driver consented to a trunk search, an argument and physical struggle ensued. The suspect seized Patrolman Toler’s .357 caliber revolver and, from about five feet, shot him five times.

Toler’s vest stopped several rounds, and he drew a boot knife in self-defense, but the suspect struck him in the head with the revolver. The suspect fled the scene, later turned himself in, and had a prior conviction for shooting a California officer during a traffic stop. He was arrested, convicted of second-degree voluntary manslaughter and given a 17-year sentence; records indicate he served eight years before release. Toler left a wife, a daughter, and two sons and is remembered by his department and community.

Does anyone have memories of Patrolman Toler or information about the case that could add to the record?