The FBI is offering a $1,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of a Shiprock man suspected of shooting a woman in the face.
Patrick Lynn Benally, 25, has relatives in the Durango area, but he may be on the Navajo Indian Reservation or in other areas of New Mexico, according to a news release issued Friday by the FBI.
An arrest warrant charges Benally with assault resulting in serious bodily injury, assault with a dangerous weapon and use of a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence.
The shooting occurred Oct. 10 at a housing complex on the Navajo Indian Reservation in Fruitland, N.M.
The victim was treated at a hospital. Her identity and whereabouts were not released.
Benally is described as Native American, about 5-feet, 5-inches tall, weighs about 180 pounds and has black hair and brown eyes.
Initial reports said Benally was in a dark crew-cab pickup, but the vehicle has been located.
He is considered armed and dangerous, according to the release.
Anyone who sees Benally or knows his whereabouts should not approach him but should instead call the Albuquerque FBI at (505) 889-1300 or send a tip at https://tips.fbi.gov.
shane@durangoherald.com
