New Mexico Sheriff Killed in Rollover Crash

The sheriff of Lea County, New Mexico was killed in a rollover crash Tuesday night.

Sheriff Steve Ackerman was en route to Santa Fe when his vehicle rolled east of Encino on Highway 285 around 7:30 p.m., according to KRQE-TV.

What caused Ackerman to lose control of his vehicle is currently under investigation.

The 15-year veteran of the Lea County Sheriff's Office -- who had been sheriff for two and a half years -- was planning to spend the week in Santa Fe for the Legislature.

Ackerman also worked as an instructor at the New Mexico Law Enforcement Academy.

He is survived by his wife and children.

Funeral arrangements are pending.