Jaremy Smith, a South Carolina man, has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of New Mexico State Police Officer Justin Hare. The incident occurred on March 15, 2024, when Officer Hare stopped to assist Smith, who was stranded with a flat tire on Interstate 40 near Tucumcari, New Mexico. Without warning, Smith shot Officer Hare multiple times, stole his patrol vehicle, and fled the scene. Officer Hare succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter .
Prior to this, Smith had abducted and murdered 52-year-old paramedic Phonesia Machado-Fore in South Carolina, using a firearm stolen from her roommate. He then embarked on a cross-country crime spree, traveling through several states before reaching New Mexico .
Smith was apprehended on March 17, 2024, in Albuquerque after a gas station clerk recognized his distinctive name from a police advisory. He attempted to flee but was quickly captured by law enforcement officers .
In addition to the murder charges, Smith pleaded guilty to multiple federal offenses, including carjacking resulting in death, kidnapping resulting in death, and firearm-related crimes. The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that Smith’s actions were a tragic reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of community vigilance .
Officer Hare is remembered as a dedicated public servant who made the ultimate sacrifice while selflessly assisting someone in need. His death has left a profound impact on the New Mexico law enforcement community and the public at large.
