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Foul play not believed to be suspected in death of Rio Arriba County sheriff, county manager says
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A new sheriff has been selected in Rio Arriba County, while foul play is not believed to be suspected in Sheriff Billy Merrifield's death, county manager Jeremy Maestas told the Journal.
The Rio Arriba County Commission selected Lorenzo Aguilar to replace Merrifield during an emergency meeting Monday, Maestas said. Aguilar had been a major at the sheriff's office.
Merrifield, 50, was found dead at his home early Sunday.
New Mexico State Police is investigating the incident, New Mexico State Police spokesperson Ricardo Breceda said.
Merrifield was appointed sheriff, replacing James Lujan in late 2021 before being elected sheriff in 2022.
"Sheriff Billy Merrifield was a steadfast guardian of his community and a compassionate public servant," New Mexico Department of Public Safety Secretary Jason Bowie said in a statement. "His dedication, courage, and heart for service will leave a lasting impact on New Mexico."
