LAS CRUCES, N.M. — The city of Las Cruces, New Mexico, has agreed to a settlement of $20 million with the relatives of a woman who was fatally shot by a police officer currently facing second-degree murder charges.

The incident involved Teresa Gomez, 45, who was killed in October 2023 when a police officer approached her while she was sitting in a parked vehicle with another individual. According to authorities, body camera footage revealed the officer firing three shots at Gomez as she attempted to drive away.

The police officer in question, Felipe Hernandez, was charged with murder in January and subsequently dismissed from the Las Cruces Police Department a few months later.

In a statement released on Friday, the city expressed that the settlement reflects their deep sorrow over Gomez’s death and conveys their condolences to her family.

Hernandez has entered a plea of not guilty to the murder allegations, with his trial set to commence on June 2. Attempts to obtain a comment from Hernandez’s legal representative have so far been unsuccessful.

The attorney representing Gomez’s family expressed appreciation for the city’s acknowledgment of the injustice surrounding Gomez’s death. “They trust that the city will intensify its efforts to ensure that no other family endures the heartbreak of losing a loved one due to excessive police force,” said Shannon Kennedy in a statement to local media.

This settlement highlights ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability, as families affected by such tragic events seek justice and systemic change.