Barricaded Suspect Surrenders Peacefully to El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Negotiator

On March 20, 2016 at approximately 12:48 PM, the El Paso County Sheriff’s dispatch center received a 911 call in reference to a suicidal check the welfare.  The call came in from the subject’s wife, who stated that a phone call with her husband had ended abruptly and she believed that she heard gunshots prior to the end of the call.  She was concerned for his safety and requested that deputies check his welfare.  The individual was identified as Raymond San Nicholas Fernandez, DOB 09/24/76.  Mr. Fernandez was also the subject of a Missing Person release sent on March 15, 2016.

Upon arrival, deputies found the residence to be locked and all windows covered.  There was no answer when numerous attempts were made to contact the subject.  Deputies then attempted to force entry, at which time the suspect inside threatened to harm officers and/or himself and indicated he had untreated PTSD.  He also appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

The El Paso County Sheriff’s SWAT unit, Crisis Negotiation and K-9 teams were dispatched after the suspect told deputies that he had additional weapons inside the residence.  Negotiations with the suspect ended peacefully when he was finally coaxed out the residence and taken into custody without further incident.  Mr. Fernandez was charged with Prohibited Use of a Weapon and Reckless Endangerment.  The Army was very thankful and impressed by EPSO’s professionalism and assistance in bringing this potentially dangerous situation to a non-violent conclusion, and expressed thanks to all involved for the level of respect shown Mr. Fernandez throughout.

A photo of Mr. Fernandez is attached to this Media Release.