Las Cruces police announced on Apr. 23 the arrest of Titus Josiah McGaw Bulger, 19, who is suspected of involvement in a shooting that occurred on April 1 and left an 18-year-old injured during an attempted vape sale.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns about youth safety and illegal activity related to vaping products. The victim suffered serious but not life-threatening injuries after being shot in the face during what police describe as a failed robbery attempt.
According to investigators, the victim had arranged to meet Bulger on north Miranda Street for the sale of disposable vapes containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and nicotine. Police say Bulger tried to steal the cartridges before firing two shots into the victim’s vehicle. After being struck, the victim drove away but crashed into a nearby canal and was later transported to University Medical Center of El Paso for treatment.
Police said they identified Bulger through social media accounts found on the victim’s phone and surveillance camera images. He was arrested on April 21 and booked into Dona Ana County Detention Center without bond, facing felony charges including shooting at or from a motor vehicle causing great bodily harm, attempted armed robbery, and receiving a stolen firearm.
Las Cruces provides community engagement through programs for youth, seniors and recreation, according to the official website. The city manages infrastructure through departments handling utilities and public works according to its official website. Local governance is delivered by Las Cruces with services, regulation, infrastructure management, and community programs according to city information.
The city operates under City Manager Ikani Taumoepeau—appointed by city council—and functions as a home-rule municipal government with a council-manager structure serving residents within its New Mexico boundaries according to official sources.
