El Paso, TX — A 26-year-old man accused in a separate crime spree in Las Cruces was arrested in El Paso after allegedly breaking into a home and locking himself inside a bathroom, according to police.
The El Paso Police Department identified the suspect as Jesus Angel Cortez of Sunland Park.
Officers were called Sunday to a burglary in the 600 block of Upson in Central El Paso. Police said the homeowners arrived and discovered Cortez had allegedly locked himself in a bathroom inside the residence.
Cortez was taken into custody and booked into the El Paso County Downtown Jail on a charge of Burglary of a Habitation.
The El Paso arrest comes as Cortez is already facing multiple charges in Las Cruces.
According to the Las Cruces Police Department, investigators accuse Cortez of firing at a vehicle near South Solano Drive and Missouri Avenue, injuring a 34-year-old man and his 11-year-old son.
Police said the adult victim suffered a gunshot wound, while the child suffered shrapnel injuries to his face and arms. Investigators said they believe the shooting was unprovoked.
Authorities also allege that Cortez later attempted to enter the home of the mother of his children and take a child. Police reported finding a broken window and a firearm at the scene.
LCPD said Cortez is facing the following charges in New Mexico:
• Shooting at or from a motor vehicle causing injury
• Two counts of Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon
• Two counts of Child Abuse
• Aggravated Burglary
Las Cruces police said additional charges could still be filed as the investigation continues.
The charges are accusations. Cortez is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.