End of Watch: Friday, May 22, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we honor the life and service of Sergeant Joseph Apodaca of the Taos County Sheriff's Office, New Mexico.

Sergeant Apodaca was killed in the line of duty on Friday, May 22, 2026, while pursuing a reckless driver. At approximately 11:44 p.m. on NM-518 near the 7200 block between Ranchos de Taos and Talpa, Sergeant Apodaca was responding after deputies located evidence that the suspect had used a driveway in the area.

As Sergeant Apodaca turned into the driveway on his patrol motorcycle, he was involved in a collision with a Taos County Sheriff's Office pickup truck that was also turning into the driveway. Despite the immediate response of fellow deputies and first responders, Sergeant Apodaca succumbed to his injuries at the scene.

The reckless driver who initiated the pursuit remains at large.

Sergeant Apodaca proudly served the Taos County Sheriff's Office for eight years. Prior to becoming a deputy, he served with the county jail and was also a dedicated member of the Swift Water Rescue Team. His unwavering commitment to serving and protecting the people of Taos County will never be forgotten.

We ask that you keep Sergeant Apodaca's wife, children, family, friends, and the entire Taos County Sheriff's Office family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

Honor a Hero. Support a Family.

American Patriot Limited has created a collection of memorial apparel and merchandise to honor the life, service, and sacrifice of Sergeant Joseph Apodaca.

100% of the profits from every memorial item sold will go directly to Sergeant Apodaca's wife and children, helping support them during this unimaginable time.

Every purchase is more than a shirt, decal, or keepsake—it is a lasting tribute to a law enforcement officer who gave everything in service to his community.

Shipping & Pickup Options

🚔 Free Taos County Pickup

Customers in Taos County and surrounding communities may use coupon code:

SHIP2TAOS

to receive FREE shipping and have their order delivered for pickup at:

Taos County Sheriff's Office
226 Cruz Alta Road
Taos, NM 87571

Office Hours:

• Monday – Friday
• 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  (Closed daily from 12:00–1:00 p.m. for lunch.)

Orders will be transported from Colorado Springs to Taos as they become available. Customers will receive a notification when their order is ready for pickup.

📦 Free Shipping on Orders Over $50

Customers outside the Taos area can receive FREE standard shipping on qualifying orders of $50 or more by using coupon code:

FR332SH1P

If you prefer to have your memorial items shipped directly to your home, paid shipping orders are typically processed and shipped the same business day whenever possible.

Thank you for helping us honor the life, dedication, and sacrifice of Sergeant Joseph Apodaca. Your support not only preserves the memory of a fallen hero—it provides meaningful assistance to the family he loved and leaves behind.

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." — John 15:13

End of Watch: May 22, 2026

Gone, but Never Forgotten.