Patrolman David L. Coker, 31, a New Mexico State Police officer, was killed on Interstate 40 about five miles west of Santa Rosa on November 18, 1979 during a traffic stop. Coker removed his coat and reached a backup weapon sewn into the coat; both men then fired. Coker’s shot struck the driver in the chest, and the driver’s shot struck Coker in the face, killing him instantly.

The driver stumbled back, collapsed, dropped his handgun, and was restrained by a passerby; the driver later died of his wounds. No other suspects were involved. Coker had served four years with the New Mexico State Police.

Anyone with information about that stop or who knew Patrolman Coker or the driver is asked to share what they remember.