Armed criminal challenges police to shoot and kill him in Downtown El Paso

The Crisis Intervention Team in El Paso assisted in the arrest of a man wanted in California for a parole violation who was found carrying a firearm in Downtown El Paso. Passersby flagged down police officers after spotting the shirtless man with visible body tattoos and a firearm in his waistband near Southwest University Park. When approached by an officer, the man, identified as Miguel Bautista, dared the officer to shoot him, prompting a call for assistance from the Crisis Intervention Team.

After requesting backup from the Crisis Management Team and Crisis Intervention Team, officers were able to take Bautista into custody without any further incidents. Upon searching him, the El Paso police found a .45-caliber pistol with five rounds, including one in the chamber of the gun. Bautista was then booked at the El Paso County Jail where a records check revealed he had three prior felony convictions for possession of a concealed gun and making criminal threats, in addition to a pending extradition warrant from California for a parole violation.

Bautista has been charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in connection with the events that occurred on March 6th in Downtown El Paso. The swift action and coordination between law enforcement agencies, along with the involvement of the Crisis Intervention Team, played a crucial role in safely apprehending the individual who was considered a threat. The incident highlights the importance of specialized crisis intervention teams in handling potentially dangerous situations involving individuals who pose a risk to themselves or others.

The federal criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas provides details of the events leading up to Bautista’s arrest and sheds light on his past criminal history. Police officers who responded to the scene acted quickly and effectively to ensure the safety of the public and the suspect. The presence of a firearm and Bautista’s provocative behavior towards law enforcement underscore the need for trained crisis intervention teams to de-escalate high-risk situations and minimize potential harm.

The collaboration between law enforcement personnel and crisis intervention teams in El Paso showcases the importance of effective communication and coordination in responding to incidents involving potentially dangerous individuals. By utilizing specialized training and resources, officers were able to defuse the situation and take the suspect into custody peacefully. The successful resolution of this case serves as a testament to the valuable role that crisis intervention teams play in maintaining public safety and diffusing volatile situations.