06/12/2026
Please read these details and help where you can.
For Immediate Release
Carlsbad Police Seek Additional Assistance in Fatal Hit and Run
Date: Monday, June 8, 2026
Location: 3700 block of Standpipe Road, Carlsbad, NM
The Carlsbad Police Department is requesting the public’s assistance as investigators continue to gather information related to a fatal hit‑and‑run crash that occurred early Monday morning.
On June 8, 2026, at approximately 5:48 a.m., officers responded to the 3700 block of Standpipe Road, where they located 19‑year‑old Carlsbad resident Trapper James Cearley, deceased. The investigation determined that Cearley had been riding a minibike southbound on Standpipe Road when he was struck by a vehicle sometime after 11:30 p.m. on June 7, 2026.
Through investigative efforts and review of surveillance footage, detectives have identified the suspect vehicle as a light‑colored Ford F‑250 or F‑350 flatbed pickup. The truck is believed to be equipped with a headache rack and auxiliary lights. Investigators believe the vehicle may have front‑end damage, as well as possible paint transfer or undercarriage damage consistent with the collision.
Investigators have also established a likely route taken by the suspect vehicle prior to the crash. Shortly before the collision, the vehicle was observed traveling southbound in the 1100 block of Pate Street at approximately 11:55 p.m. on June 7, 2026. It then continued south on Church Street, proceeded south on Sixth Street, and ultimately traveled onto Standpipe Road.
The Carlsbad Police Department is asking residents and businesses along this route to review any available surveillance footage recorded between 11:45 p.m. and midnight on June 7, 2026. Any video capturing a light‑colored Ford flatbed pickup or suspicious activity during this timeframe may be critical to the investigation.
Anyone with relevant footage or information is urged to contact the Carlsbad Police Department at (575) 885‑2111 ext. 0.