Staff Reports
Two individuals are facing charges after they reportedly stabbed and shot at multiple victims near Wowies Event Center.
At approximately 1:07 a.m. on Feb. 7, Gallup Police responded to reports of violence at 1500 S. Second St. Officers arrived to find multiple victims and reports of suspects fleeing in a Chevrolet Trailblazer. The vehicle was later intercepted by New Mexico State Police near Rocky View Elementary and two individuals were taken to the Gallup Police station. The individuals were later identified as Emerson Smith, 25, and Emertina Smith, 22.
According to an arrest warrant, a security guard intervened in a fight between several women to protect a 9-year-old child. During the intervention, the guard was stabbed three times in the neck, arm, and chest. Despite his injuries, he managed to disarm the assailant, Emerson, before driving himself to the hospital.
A second victim reported being stabbed in the right arm and chest, also describing Emerson as the assailant. A third victim stated he sustained a stab wound on his right forearm. The initial two individuals sustained critical injuries and were transported to a local hospital for advanced medical care.
The Criminal Investigations Division was called to the scene to collaborate with patrol officers, utilizing evidence collected and video footage provided by several citizens.
Detectives interviewed Emertina.
After corroborating statements from witnesses and involved parties, Detective Victor Rodriguez secured a warrant for Emerson’s arrest. Emertina Smith was subsequently arrested and charged with her involvement in the incident.
Emerson was served his arrest warrant on Feb. 9. He is facing two charges of aggravated battery and one count of negligent use of a deadly weapon. His preliminary examination in Gallup Magistrate Court is scheduled for Feb. 18.
Emertina is facing two charges — negligent use of a deadly weapon and shooting at or from a moving vehicle. Her preliminary hearing in Gallup Magistrate Court is scheduled for Feb. 25.
