Two Arrested in Hobbs Shooting and Robbery Investigation

HOBBS, N.M. — Hobbs Police arrested two men in connection with a shooting and robbery that occurred on Jan. 2, 2025.

Jesus Rodriguez-Lopez, 28, and Ezekiel Mendoza, 20, face multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery, armed robbery, and conspiracy.

The incident began when officers responded to a report of a woman suffering a gunshot wound near Sanger and Grimes. The victim was transported to Covenant Health Hobbs Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries before being flown to a Texas hospital for further care. Police say the suspect fled before their arrival.

As detectives investigated the shooting, they determined it occurred near East Skelly and South Thorp Streets. Rodriguez-Lopez, also known as “Chuy,” was identified as the alleged shooter. During the same time, officers received a report of a robbery on South Leech Street. Police say Rodriguez-Lopez pointed a firearm at a man and stole his vehicle after threatening him outside his home.

Rodriguez-Lopez and Mendoza were later located with the stolen vehicle and taken into custody. Investigators revealed that Rodriguez-Lopez had threatened another individual at gunpoint earlier that day, forcing them to provide transportation to the robbery site.

Rodriguez-Lopez faces charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, shooting at or from a motor vehicle, armed robbery, and tampering with evidence. Mendoza is charged with conspiracy to commit robbery. Both men have extensive criminal histories, including previous charges of assault, battery, and resisting officers.

The investigation remains active. Anyone with information is urged to contact Hobbs Police at (575) 397-9265 or Lea County Crime Stoppers at (575) 393-8005.