Las Cruces Police Respond to Armed Man at Chili’s, Fatal Shooting Ensues

On Thursday, October 9, 2025, at around 6 p.m., Las Cruces police were dispatched to the reports of an aggressive man threatening patrons and employees with a knife and a hammer at Chili’s Grill and Bar on Telshor. When the first officer arrived, 50-year-old Philip Adrian Mullin was sitting in his silver Honda sedan. As the officer approached and asked him to exit the vehicle. Mullin grabbed a hammer and walked towards the officer for approximately 60 feet. The officer can be heard telling him to put his hands up or not come closer at least eight times while backing away. When Mullin kept advancing, the officer fired three shots, striking him. Officers immediately render aid, but the man is pronounced dead at the scene.