(DEMING, NM) - A fugitive couple wanted out of Steuben County is dead following a confrontation with U.S. Marshals in New Mexico.
New Mexico State Police say federal agents located Joseph McDowell and Cassondra Sauber at a home in Deming and attempted to arrest them.
The pair had been on the run for more than five years after being charged in Steuben County in connection with child sex crimes involving a minor. Authorities had previously asked for the public's help in locating them as the case drew attention in northeast Indiana.
According to investigators, deputies breached the door to the home to take the couple into custody. McDowell was armed with a rifle, and at least one deputy fired during the encounter.
Agents then backed out and established a perimeter as the situation turned into a barricade.
After receiving no response, law enforcement sent a drone and robot inside the residence.
Both McDowell and Sauber were found dead. State police say their gunshot wounds appear to be self-inflicted.
No law enforcement officers were injured.
The incident remains under investigation by New Mexico State Police.