Death by Cop  2021-2025

Search fatalities

You can use any or all of the fields to refine the search.

Displaying 1,001 - 1,040 of 1,165

Juan Luis Olvera Preciado

Age :59

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 08/21/2021

Location : Obispo Street near Birch Street

City : Guadalupe

County : Santa Barbara

State : California

Agency : Guadalupe Police Department

Officer(s) : Officer Miguel Jaimes

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Bystander killed by police gunfire

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/21/2021 officers pursued a wanted person in Guadalupe. During the encounter Officer Miguel Jaimes fired at the individual. A bullet ricocheted and traveled into a parked vehicle where Juan Luis Olvera Preciado was sitting. He was struck by the gunfire and died at the scene.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.independent.com/2021/08/23/bystander-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting-in-guadalupe-authorities-say
https://www.ksla.com/2021/08/24/california-officer-fires-suspect-hits-kills-innocent-bystander
https://www.aol.com/guadalupe-police-officer-wont-face-charges-210626658.html

Setha Phangdy

Age :38

Gender :Male

Race : Asian

Date : 08/19/2021

Location : Ballard Street and Decker Street

City : El Cajon

County : San Diego

State : California

Agency : El Cajon Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during investigation

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/19/2021, officers from the El Cajon Police Department were responding to reports that a person had been shot in the area of Ballard Street and Decker Street. While investigating, police stated they encountered Setha Phangdy standing in the roadway. Police alleged that Phangdy fired a gun toward an officer. An officer then opened fire, striking and killing him. Authorities later stated the shooting was reviewed by the district attorney’s office, which cleared the officer involved.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/public-safety/story/2021-08-19/el-cajon-police-officer-wounds-shooting-suspect-during-gun-battle
https://www.nbcsandiego.com/news/local/san-diego-das-office-clears-10-officers-in-7-shootings-2-of-which-were-fatal/2985636/
https://www.kpbs.org/news/local/2021/08/19/el-cajon-police-shooting

Ervin Olikong

Age :34

Gender :Male

Race : Asian

Date : 08/18/2021

Location : Highland

City : Highland

County : San Bernardino

State : California

Agency : San Bernardino Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/18/2021, San Bernardino police were tracking Ervin Olikong following a traffic stop earlier in which police reported that shots were fired toward an officer. When officers moved in to arrest Olikong in the Highland area, police reported that he exited a vehicle and fired toward approaching officers. Officers opened fire, killing Olikong at the scene. The San Bernardino County District Attorney later reviewed the incident and ruled the shooting justified.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.sbsun.com/2021/08/19/man-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting-in-highland-identified/
https://www.vvdailypress.com/story/news/2021/08/19/highland-police-shooting-man-killed-identified/8200463002/
https://www.vvng.com/highland-man-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting-identified/

https://abc7.com/ervin-olikong-highland-san-bernardino-police-officers/10962433/

https://sbcountyda.org/2024/02/20/officer-involved-shooting-fatal-highland-olikong-e/

Victor Richard Carevic

Age :42

Gender :Male

Race : White

Date : 08/15/2021

Location : Barstow

City : Barstow

County : San Bernardino

State : California

Agency : Barstow Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/15/2021, Barstow police responded to a call reporting a man who appeared to be searching for a vehicle that had recently been towed. Officers contacted Victor Richard Carevic and attempted to question him. According to police, Carevic moved away on foot, and during the encounter he was reported to have pointed a firearm toward an officer, who fell and fired. Police stated that Carevic continued moving away before officers caught up to him near a locked business. Officers reported that Carevic again turned toward them with a firearm, and officers fired, killing him at the scene. The San Bernardino County District Attorney later reviewed the case and ruled the shooting justified.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.vvdailypress.com/story/news/2021/08/16/barstow-police-shooting-man-killed-identified/8151362002/
https://www.vvng.com/barstow-police-identify-man-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting/
https://www.sbsun.com/2021/08/16/man-shot-killed-by-barstow-police-identified/

https://www.vvdailypress.com/story/news/2021/08/15/barstow-police-officer-shoots-kills-man-sunday/8146882002/

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=3028768524013733&id=1666780863545846&set=a.1666780900212509

https://da.sbcounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/120/2025/02/OIS-Carevic-Victor-FINAL-Redacted.pdf?x52267

Alfredo Garcia

Age :28

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 08/13/2021

Location : Bakersfield

City : Bakersfield

County : Kern

State : California

Agency : Bakersfield Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/13/2021, Bakersfield police responded to reports of a disturbance at an apartment complex where a man was screaming and appeared to be in crisis. Officers reported seeing inside an apartment where Alfredo Garcia was holding a knife and his mother was present and visibly distressed. According to police statements, officers forced entry into the apartment after observing what they described as Garcia stabbing his mother. Officers opened fire, killing Garcia at the scene. The Kern County District Attorney later reviewed the incident and ruled the shooting justified.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.kget.com/news/local-news/bakersfield-police-identify-man-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting/
https://www.turnto23.com/news/local-news/bakersfield-police-identify-man-shot-killed-by-officers
https://www.bakersfield.com/news/bpd-officer-involved-shooting-leaves-man-dead/article_3c1d6d0a-fc43-11eb-8b35-7f52e6c7f1a3.html
https://eminetra.com/one-man-dies-in-officer-involved-shooting-friday-news-bakersfield-california/690374/

https://www.kerncounty.com/home/showpublisheddocument/8949/637952872632970000

https://www.kget.com/news/crime-watch/man-killed-by-bpd-officers-after-stabbing-his-mother-identified/

Rodney Coleman

Age :50

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 08/11/2021

Location : Park Avenue and Palmdale Road

City : Victorville

County : San Bernardino

State : California

Agency : San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Physical restraint

Event : Died during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/11/2021, deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office responded around 9 a.m. to a reported disturbance involving a man at a bus stop at Park Avenue and Palmdale Road in Victorville. Deputies handcuffed Rodney Coleman without incident. When a deputy attempted to close the patrol car door, Coleman allegedly kicked the deputy and exited the vehicle. The deputy suffered a minor injury. Emergency responders provided aid to the deputy. While medical personnel were assisting the deputy, Coleman reportedly suffered a medical emergency and died. The death prompted a civil lawsuit; the family later secured a settlement with the sheriff’s department.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.vvng.com/victorville-man-arrested-dies-at-hospital-after-medical-emergency/
https://followourcourts.com/san-bernardino-sheriffs-settle-in-death-case-for-250000/
https://www.vvdailypress.com/story/news/2021/08/13/victorville-man-dies-sheriffs-custody-following-unknown-medical-emergency-authorities-say/8131128002/

https://legalnewsline.com/stories/648773494-lawsuit-alleges-san-bernardino-deputies-excessive-force-restricted-man-s-airway-and-killed-him

https://followourcourts.com/2024/07/san-bernardino-sheriffs-settle-in-death-case-for-250000

Adrian Joel Sanchez

Age :34

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 08/11/2021

Location : Castaic

City : Castaic

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/11/2021, Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies stopped a vehicle on the Golden State Freeway in the Castaic area for an undisclosed reason. According to reporting, deputies attempted to escort the driver, identified as Adrian Joel Sanchez, to a patrol vehicle. An altercation occurred during which Sanchez broke away from a deputy and moved up an embankment before returning to the vehicle. Deputies reported that another struggle occurred, after which Sanchez drove the vehicle while a deputy was dragged. The vehicle then crashed through multiple fences. A deputy fired, killing Sanchez at the scene. The incident was reported as under investigation, and no deputies were charged.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/los-angeles-county-deputy-dragged-suspect-killed-castaic/10965127/
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-08-12/deputy-dragged-by-car-in-castaic-shoots-driver-authorities-say
https://www.dailynews.com/2021/08/12/man-shot-killed-after-deputy-dragged-by-car-in-castaic/
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/los-angeles-county-sheriff-department-shooting-5-freeway-castaic/2669600/

Luis Manuel Garcia-Arias

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 08/09/2021

Location : Tustin

City : Tustin

County : Orange

State : California

Agency : Tustin Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during arrest

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/09/2021, Tustin police responded to a call reporting an unhoused man near a mobile home park who had been seen holding a knife the previous day. Officers located Luis Manuel Garcia-Arias sleeping on the ground behind bushes near the property. According to reporting, officers spoke with Garcia-Arias and he agreed to come out. As he approached officers holding a wooden stick and a bag containing empty cans, one officer fired a shot, striking him. Garcia-Arias was pronounced dead after being taken to a hospital. The California Department of Justice later reviewed the case and cleared the officer of criminal wrongdoing.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/tustin-officer-involved-shooting-luis-manuel-garcia-arias-police/11171273/
https://www.ocregister.com/2021/08/09/man-killed-in-officer-involved-shooting-in-tustin/
https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/california-department-justice-releases-report-officer-involved-shooting-luis-manuel-garcia-arias
https://www.ocregister.com/2021/08/09/tustin-police-officer-shoots-person-after-responding-to-call-near-mobile-home-park/

https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/california-department-justice-releases-report-officer-involved-shooting-luis

https://www.mercurynews.com/2024/03/19/no-criminal-charges-for-orange-county-officer-who-fatally-shot-man-holding-wooden-pole/

Selena Clark-Quintero

Age :14

Gender :Female

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 08/07/2021

Location : Burke Hill Drive near Rivino Ranch Road

City : Ukiah

County : Mendocino

State : California

Agency : Ukiah Police Department, California Highway Patrol

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Passenger killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On August 7, 2021, around 1:30 a.m., Ukiah Police attempted to stop a 2017 Volkswagen Beetle for running a red light. The 15-year-old driver fled south on U.S. Highway 101 at over 100 mph. After exiting at Rivino Ranch Road, the car went airborne at the intersection with Burke Hill Drive, crashed into a tree, and landed upside down. Passenger Selena Clark-Quintero, 14, of Potter Valley, died at the scene. The driver and another passenger, a 13-year-old from Ukiah, suffered major injuries.

TOTAL FATALITIES/INJURIES: 1 fatality, 2 injuries

SOURCE LINKS :

https://mendovoice.com/2021/08/one-teenager-killed-and-two-more-injured-in-solo-crash-while-fleeing-ukiah-police/
https://kymkemp.com/2021/08/09/pursuit-ends-with-14-year-old-dead-two-with-major-injuries-near-ukiah/
https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/1-teen-dead-2-injured-in-ukiah-crash-after-15-year-old-driver-flees-police/
https://www.ukiahdailyjournal.com/2021/08/09/ukiah-crash-kills-teen-injures-two-others
https://www.willitsnews.com/2021/08/09/teen-dies-in-crash-ukiah-police-chase/

Che Noe Zuniga Jr.

Age :21

Gender :Male

Race : Black

Date : 08/07/2021

Location : 5700 block of Autumn Crest Drive

City : Bakersfield

County : Kern

State : California

Agency : Bakersfield Police Department

Officer(s) : C. Puryear, S. Mann, J. Peña, C. Dickson, D. Ramseur

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On August 7, 2021, Bakersfield Police responded to a domestic violence call and separate reports that Che Noe Zuniga Jr., 21, had fired at a security guard. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but Zuniga fled in a green Chevy pickup. The pursuit ended when he crashed near Harris and Stine Roads and fled on foot. Officers later found him hiding in a trash can on the 5700 block of Autumn Crest Drive. When discovered, Zuniga reportedly charged officers and was shot and killed. The California Department of Justice investigated and found the officers’ use of force lawful.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/suspect-identified-in-officer-involved-shootings-in-southwest-bakersfield
https://bakersfieldnow.com/news/local/body-camera-footage-released-in-ois-that-left-suspect-dead-in-august
https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/ois/report/2024_07_Zuniga_AB1506_Report.pdf
https://www.turnto23.com/news/local-news/bpd-identifies-man-shot-and-killed-by-officers-after-shooting-at-police
https://www.kget.com/news/local-news/police-id-man-killed-in-southwest-bakersfield-shooting/

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Unknown

Race : Unknown

Date : 08/07/2021

Location : Santa Rosa

City : Santa Rosa

County : Sonoma

State : California

Agency : Santa Rosa Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Bystander killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/07/2021, Santa Rosa Police officers pursued a stolen vehicle through the city. During the pursuit, the fleeing vehicle crashed into another car. An uninvolved person in the struck vehicle was killed as a result of the collision. The driver of the stolen vehicle was taken into custody, and the incident was investigated by authorities.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.pressdemocrat.com/article/news/santa-rosa-police-pursuit-ends-in-fatal-crash/
https://www.kron4.com/news/bay-area/police-chase-in-santa-rosa-ends-in-deadly-crash/

Matthew-Tuan Anh Tran

Age :22

Gender :Male

Race : Asian

Date : 08/06/2021

Location : 150 N. Euclid Street

City : La Habra

County : Orange

State : California

Agency : La Habra Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during shooting

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/06/2021, La Habra police responded to a disturbance involving a man who followed a woman from the freeway to the police station. Police confronted him outside the department. He drew a handgun and fired at officers, striking one officer. Police opened fire with multiple rounds and killed him in front of the station.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/post/la-habra-officer-involved-shooting-suspect-shot-deadly-shootout-gunfight/12591907/
https://abc7.com/post/la-habra-police-shooting-department/10937545/

Erick Barbosa-Guardado

Age :19

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 08/05/2021

Location : Nordhoff Street and Tampa Avenue

City : Northridge

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Bystander killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 08/05/2021, Los Angeles police attempted to stop a vehicle wanted in an armed robbery investigation. The driver refused to stop and police escalated a chase through Northridge at very high speed. No PIT maneuvers were reported. Around 12:30 a.m., the fleeing vehicle entered the intersection of Nordhoff Street and Tampa Avenue and collided with the car driven by Erick Barbosa-Guardado. He died at the scene. Police arrested the driver of the fleeing vehicle after the crash.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/northridge-pursuit-crash-erick-barbosa-guardado/10930363/
https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2021/08/05/erick-barbosa-guardado-killed-northridge-crash-police-pursuit/

Dylan Christopher Harmer

Age :21

Gender :Male

Race : White

Date : 08/04/2021

Location : Glendora Avenue and West Route 66

City : Glendora

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Azusa Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during armed confrontation following domestic violence incident

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On August 4, 2021, at approximately 12:30 a.m., Glendora Police Department officers responded to a domestic violence call on Myrtle Street, where a woman reported that her boyfriend, 21-year-old Dylan Christopher Harmer, had assaulted her and was armed with a handgun. Upon arrival, Harmer exited the residence and pointed a black semi-automatic handgun at the officers before retreating back inside. He then fled the scene on foot. Azusa Police Department officers were called to assist in the search.
.
Harmer was located near the intersection of Glendora Avenue and West Route 66, where he was attempting to carjack at least two vehicles. When confronted by officers, he reportedly turned and pointed his firearm at an Azusa Police Department officer, who then shot and killed him.
.
Investigation:
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is assisting the Azusa Police Department in the investigation of this officer-involved shooting. The names of the involved officers have not been publicly disclosed.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/21-year-old-dylan-harmer-of-glendora-identified-as-man-shot-and-killed-wednesday-by-azusa-police/
https://abc7.com/azusa-glendora-police-shooting-man/10929524/
https://patch.com/california/glendora/glendora-resident-idd-man-shot-killed-azusa-police
https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/armed-domestic-violence-suspect-shot-to-death-by-azusa-police/
https://www.foxla.com/news/man-who-allegedly-pointed-gun-at-officers-shot-and-killed-by-police-gunfire

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 08/01/2021

Location : Vernon Avenue

City : Riverside

County : Riverside

State : California

Agency : Riverside Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Fall from height

Event : Died during police chase

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On August 1, 2021, a man ran from Riverside Police officers during a foot pursuit on Vernon Avenue. During the chase, the man fell and struck his head. He was transported to a hospital, where he died from the head injury. No name has been publicly released. The department said the man was a parolee with an active warrant, but no further identifying information was provided.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.dailybulletin.com/2021/08/01/police-man-dies-after-falling-hitting-head-during-pursuit-in-riverside/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CSNhYKbhAFm/
https://www.pe.com/2021/08/02/parolee-dies-after-fleeing-riverside-police-and-falling/
https://www.kesq.com/news/2021/08/02/man-dies-after-fleeing-police-in-riverside/
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/parolee-dies-after-falling-while-running-from-riverside-police/2663729/

Ruben Isaac Sanchez

Age :31

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/31/2021

Location :

City : Woodville

County : Tulare

State : California

Agency : Tulare County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during manhunt

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/31/2021, Ruben Isaac Sanchez was shot and killed by deputies with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office in Woodville, California. Deputies received a tip that Sanchez was at a cemetery and responded to the location. According to law enforcement, deputies encountered Sanchez and gunfire occurred during the encounter. Deputies opened fire, striking Sanchez. He was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. Authorities stated that Sanchez had been sought in connection with a killing reported earlier that day. The shooting was investigated by the sheriff’s office and outside authorities.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://tularecounty.ca.gov/sheriff/media/news-releases-2021/happening-now-tcso-deputies-on-scene-of-officer-involved-shooting-with-woodville-murder-suspect
https://abc30.com/post/tulare-murder-domestic-violence-homicide-woodville-shooting/10927976/
https://www.kget.com/news/crime-watch/tulare-county-deputies-ask-for-help-in-search-of-murder-suspect/

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 07/31/2021

Location : Near the town of Pioneer

City : Pioneer

County : Amador

State : California

Agency : Amador County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Driver killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/31/2021, a man being pursued by a deputy of the Amador County Sheriff’s Office crashed his pickup truck into a power pole after crossing into on coming traffic and apparently losing control. The crash ignited a fire, and the driver was found deceased inside the vehicle. The pursuit had lasted only a few minutes and ended on State Route 88 near Pioneer.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.sacbee.com/news/local/crime/article253169293.html
https://www.cbsnews.com/gooddaysacramento/news/man-dies-following-amador-county-sheriff-pursuit/

Mario Territo III

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 07/27/2021

Location : Interstate 80 near Cordelia Junction

City : Fairfield

County : Solano

State : California

Agency : Vacaville Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Suicide

Event : Suicide under police duress

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On July 27, 2021, Mario Territo III died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a police pursuit initiated by Vacaville Police Department. The chase was conducted along Interstate 80 and ended near Cordelia Junction in Fairfield. After officers stopped the vehicle, they found Territo inside with a gunshot wound to the head. A handgun was recovered from the vehicle. Territo was transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. The incident is under investigation.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://solanonews.substack.com/p/breaking-1-dead-at-end-of-police
https://solanonews.substack.com/p/exclusive-man-who-fatally-shot-self-a35
https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/vacaville-police-chase-driver-kills-self-alamo-dr/

Hermenegildo Gonzalez Jr.

Age :58

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 07/26/2021

Location :

City : Los Angeles

County : California

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during armed encounter

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/26/2021, Hermenegildo Gonzalez Jr. was shot and killed by an officer with the Los Angeles Police Department in Los Angeles, California. Officers responded to a report of someone screaming in distress at a residence on Barry Avenue. Upon arrival, officers observed Gonzalez inside an apartment holding a large knife and restraining an elderly woman by placing his arm and the knife at her neck. Officers ordered Gonzalez to drop the knife. When he refused and continued to hold the woman, an officer fired a single shot, striking Gonzalez. He died at the scene. Investigators later determined that the officer acted in defense of another based on the totality of the circumstances. The woman was not injured.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://da.lacounty.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/JSID-OIS-10-16-24-Gonzalez-Jr.pdf
https://patch.com/california/beverlyhills/cops-kill-man-holding-woman-knifepoint-west-la-lapd
https://homicide.latimes.com/post/hermenegildo-gonzalez-jr/
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-07-26/police-shoot-and-kill-man-in-west-l-a

Samuel Soto

Age :53

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/26/2021

Location : 1318 South Union Avenue (near Pico Boulevard), Los Angeles

City : Los Angeles

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Officers Eduardo Martinez & David Voci

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during mental health crisis

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/26/2021, officers from the LAPD responded to a call of an assault with a deadly weapon (knife) near South Union Avenue and Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles. A bystander (an off-duty officer) reported seeing Mr. Soto bleeding from the neck and holding a knife, and he began walking toward the officers and others while brandishing the blade. The officers ordered him to stop; he did not comply and advanced roughly within five to ten feet while holding the knife, prompting Officer Martinez to fire two shots (which missed), then a third shot that struck Mr. Soto in the abdomen. He was transported to the hospital, underwent surgery, remained hospitalized for months, and died on 11/02/2021 from complications. The state California Department of Justice reviewed the case under AB 1506 and concluded there was insufficient evidence to support criminal charges against the officers, while also recommending policy and practice improvements for LAPD.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://oag.ca.gov/system/files/ois/report/2024_02_Soto_AB1506_Report.pdf
https://oag.ca.gov/news/press-releases/california-department-justice-releases-report-officer-involved-shooting-samuel
https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2024-02-09/no-charges-for-lapd-officers-who-fatally-shot-man-in-pico-union

Jose Manuel Ramirez Jr.

Age :41

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/25/2021

Location :

City : Wasco

County : Kern

State : California

Agency : Kern County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police after standoff

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/25/2021, Jose Manuel Ramirez Jr. was shot and killed by deputies with the Kern County Sheriff’s Office in Wasco, California, following a prolonged standoff at a residence. Deputies responded to a report of shots fired at the home. Ramirez Jr. climbed onto the roof and exchanged gunfire with law enforcement during the incident, which lasted several hours. Deputies ultimately shot and killed him approximately five hours after the standoff began. After the shooting, deputies entered the residence and found three additional people dead inside, identified as Ramirez Jr.’s two sons and their mother. During the incident, Kern County Sheriff’s Deputy Phillip Campas was killed, and another officer was wounded.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2021/07/26/officer-fatally-shot-in-Wasco-standoff-with-gunman/6691627285970/

Jesus Salvador Valeta

Age :22

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/23/2021

Location : Near El Cajon Boulevard and 54th Street

City : San Diego

County : San Diego

State : California

Agency : San Diego Police Department

Officer(s) : Officers Gregory Bergman and Anthony Guerra

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/23/2021, officers from the San Diego Police Department pursued a vehicle driven by Jesus Salvador Valeta after a shooting was reported and a vehicle matching the description was located near 54th Street and El Cajon Boulevard. Police attempted to stop the vehicle; Valeta fled on foot onto the property of a fast food restaurant near the intersection. Investigators say he tripped while running, dropped a handgun, picked it back up, and then made a motion with the gun while on his knees. Two officers fired their service weapons; Valeta was taken to a hospital where he later died of his injuries.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.10news.com/news/local-news/san-diego-news/san-diego-police-release-bodycam-footage-of-fatal-talmadge-shooting
https://timesofsandiego.com/crime/2021/07/27/suspect-who-was-fatally-shot-by-police-in-talmadge-area-idd/
https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/local/sdpd-releases-video-of-fatal-shooting-talmadge-area-strip-mall/509-d390a0d7-553b-4c89-9608-9e7329810101

Gerardo Martinez

Age :19

Gender :Male

Race : Native American

Date : 07/16/2021

Location : 100 block Smith Street

City : Salinas

County : Monterey

State : California

Agency : Salinas Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during response to armed report

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/16/2021, police responded to a report of a person with a gun and confronted Gerardo Martinez in Salinas. Officers opened fire after he raised an object toward them. Martinez was killed at the scene. Reporting later indicated he spoke Zapotec while commands were given in Spanish and that the object was a BB gun. Martinez was 19.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.thecalifornian.com/story/news/2021/07/16/salinas-police-shooting/7990950002/
https://kion546.com/news/2021/07/16/salinas-police-investigating-officer-involved-shooting/

Matthew James Sova

Age :48

Gender :Male

Race : White

Date : 07/15/2021

Location : Los Angeles

City : California

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police while holding toy gun

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/15/2021, Matthew James Sova was shot and killed by Los Angeles Police Department officers on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. Police responded to multiple calls reporting a man holding what appeared to be a firearm in a crowded tourist area. Officers located Sova near 6776 Hollywood Boulevard. According to police, officers confronted him and opened fire, killing him at the scene. Investigators later confirmed that the object Sova was holding was a toy gun. In November 2022, the California Department of Justice released its review and declined to file charges against the officers involved.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-07-15/lapd-police-fatally-shoot-man-hollywood-boulevard
https://www.davisvanguard.org/2022/11/lapd-officers-who-shot-killed-unarmed-man-cleared-in-ca-doj-report/
https://homicide.latimes.com/post/matthew-james-sova/

Larry Luis Mendez

Age :38

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/12/2021

Location :

City : Ontario

County : California

State : California

Agency : Fontana Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police after pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/12/2021, Larry Luis Mendez was shot and killed by officers with the Fontana Police Department in Ontario, California, following a traffic stop that escalated into a police pursuit. Police attempted to stop Mendez for traffic violations. The driver continued driving, and officers escalated a chase that moved onto the Interstate 10 freeway. The pursuit ended when police boxed in Mendez’s vehicle. Police reported that officers ordered Mendez to show his hands. Moments later, an officer opened fire, striking Mendez. He died at the scene. A firearm was later reported inside the vehicle. In April 2025, the San Bernardino County District Attorney released its findings and declined to file charges.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.sbsun.com/2021/07/12/10-freeway-pursuit-ends-in-police-shooting-in-ontario/
https://da.sbcounty.gov/2025/04/17/officer-involved-shooting-fatal-ontario-l-mendez/
https://da.sbcounty.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/120/2025/04/Mendez-Larry-OIS-Public-Release-Memorandum.pdf

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 07/09/2021

Location : Interstate 605 and East Carson Street

City : Hawaiian Gardens

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during traffic stop

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/09/2021, deputies attempted a traffic stop near Interstate 605 and East Carson Street in Hawaiian Gardens. The driver continued driving and deputies escalated a pursuit that ended near the freeway interchange. Under unclear circumstances deputies opened fire and killed the individual. Authorities withheld the person’s identity and released limited detail about the encounter while the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau conducted the investigation.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/hawaiian-gardens-deputy-involved-shooting/10884427/
https://ktla.com/news/local-news/person-killed-in-deputy-involved-shooting-in-hawaiian-gardens/
https://www.presstelegram.com/2021/07/09/deputies-shoot-kill-person-near-605-freeway-in-hawaiian-gardens/

Steven Adam Calderon

Age :32

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 07/06/2021

Location : Paso Robles

City : Paso Robles

County : San Luis Obispo

State : California

Agency : Paso Robles Police Department (and San Luis Obispo Regional SWAT)

Officer(s) : San Luis Obispo Regional SWAT Team

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police standoff

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On July 6, 2021, a 32-year-old man named Steven Adam Calderon of Los Angeles died following a prolonged standoff with law enforcement in Paso Robles, California. Earlier the day before, officers had been called to an apartment complex around 4 p.m. after reports that Calderon had fired a weapon from a balcony, threatened a woman with a gun, and pointed a firearm at his girlfriend. He barricaded himself inside the residence while armed. The San Luis Obispo Regional SWAT team was activated for the high-risk situation. After several hours of negotiation and multiple shots fired by him at officers or their armored vehicle, Calderon emerged early the next morning and set his gun down. He then allegedly reached toward the firearm while on the porch and was shot and fatally wounded by SWAT officers.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/police-release-name-of-man-killed-in-paso-robles-officer-involved-shooting
https://pasoroblesdailynews.com/police-chief-holds-press-conference-regarding-police-shooting-suspect/128839/

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Unknown

Race : Unknown

Date : 07/05/2021

Location : From Pasadena area to Downtown Los Angeles, California

City : Los Angeles

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : California Highway Patrol

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Driver killed by police after pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 07/05/2021, CHP officers initiated a vehicle pursuit that began in the Pasadena area and ended in downtown Los Angeles when the fleeing driver rammed a patrol car. The driver was shot by officers following the crash and died at the scene. The circumstances around the ramming and the subsequent use of force are under investigation.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/driver-shot-chase-pursuit-downtown-la-pasadena-chp/2631648/

Name Not Disclosed

Age :

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 06/28/2021

Location : 800 West Florida Avenue

City : Hemet

County : Riverside

State : California

Agency : Hemet Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during struggle

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/28/2021, a Hemet police officer pulled over a vehicle in the parking lot of a hotel on West Florida Avenue that had two men inside. During the stop, the driver, whose name has been withheld in initial reporting, exited the vehicle and confronted the officer, punching him, according to police. The man broke free and ran to the rear of the hotel. The officer pursued him and was reportedly struck again after coming around a corner. A struggle ensued on the ground, during which the officer opened fire and shot the man, killing him at the scene. The victim’s age and race have not been disclosed in reporting. The investigation into the shooting was reported as pending at the time of initial coverage.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.pe.com/2021/06/28/hemet-police-officer-fatally-shoots-man-following-struggle/

Soobleej Kaub Hawj Hawj

Age :35

Gender :Male

Race : Asian

Date : 06/28/2021

Location : US-97 and 99-97 Cutoff

City : Weed

County : Siskiyou

State : California

Agency : California Department of Fish and Game Law Enforcement, Etna Police Department, Siskiyou County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during evacuation enforcement

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/28/2021, law enforcement officers from multiple agencies were assisting with wildfire evacuations during the Lava Fire and had closed a section of roadway near US-97 and the 99-97 Cutoff outside Weed. Officers stopped a vehicle after the driver continued driving into the restricted evacuation area despite directions to avoid it. During the encounter, police reported that Soobleej Kaub Hawj Hawj pointed a firearm while speaking with officers. Officers from several agencies engaged Hawj and opened fire, killing him at the scene. Hawj was 35 years old. Authorities later stated the shooting was cleared, and no officers were charged.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.kdrv.com/content/news/Deadly-officer-involved-shooting-unfolds-during-Lava-Fire-evacuations-574734371.html

Christopher Garcia

Age :26

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/28/2021

Location : Off-ramp of I-5 at Terra Bella Street

City : Los Angeles

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during pursuit and shootout

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On June 28, 2021, the Los Angeles Police Department’s Mission Division observed Christopher Garcia driving recklessly near Osborne Street and Laurel Canyon Boulevard around 10 a.m. The officers attempted a traffic stop and a pursuit ensued onto the northbound I-5 Freeway. The chase ended at the Terra Bella Street off-ramp where Garcia lost control of his vehicle and exited it while holding a handgun. Officers ordered him to drop the weapon. Garcia allegedly pointed it at them, prompting officers to open fire. He was transported to a hospital and pronounced dead later that morning.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-06-28/man-shot-by-lapd-in-pacoima-after-car-pursuit

Jose Mario Velez

Age :47

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/28/2021

Location : Northbound Highway 1 near mile-marker 135 (near Orcutt)

City : Lompoc

County : Santa Barbara

State : California

Agency : Vandenberg Space Force Base Security Forces, California Highway Patrol

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Driver killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/28/2021, security forces from Vandenberg Space Force Base attempted to stop a 47-year-old man from Lompoc, who they say was driving erratically and repeatedly weaving across lanes along northbound Highway 1. The man refused to yield and fled at high speed. The chase ended around 9:45 p.m. when his GMC Denali failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway, plunged off an embankment and rolled onto its roof. Officers were unable to open the doors initially due to extensive damage, and the driver was extracted at approximately 10:40 p.m. and was pronounced dead at the scene.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://keyt.com/news/traffic/2021/06/28/driver-being-pursued-by-space-force-base-security-killed-in-rollover-crash/
https://www.ksby.com/news/local-news/fatal-vehicle-rollover-closes-part-of-highway-1/

Jerome Barber

Age :59

Gender :Male

Race : Black

Date : 06/27/2021

Location : 900 block of West Sierra Madre Avenue

City : Azusa

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Azusa Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during domestic dispute involving a knife

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On June 27, 2021, at approximately 12:50 p.m., Azusa Police Department officers responded to a domestic dispute call in the 900 block of West Sierra Madre Avenue. Upon arrival, they encountered 59-year-old Jerome Barber, who was armed with a large kitchen knife. Officers issued multiple commands for Barber to drop the weapon, which he ignored. Barber walked in and out of his residence several times, appearing frustrated and irritated. He then rushed toward the officers, prompting them to deploy less-lethal munitions, which were ineffective. As Barber continued to charge with the knife, an officer opened fire, fatally wounding him. Barber was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation:
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is assisting the Azusa Police Department in the investigation of this officer-involved shooting. The names of the involved officers have not been publicly disclosed.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.foxla.com/news/officer-involved-shooting-investigation-underway-in-azusa
https://heysocal.com/2021/06/28/man-holding-knife-that-was-shot-and-killed-by-azusa-police-identified/
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/man-killed-in-shooting-involving-police-in-azusa/2626142/
https://abc7.com/azusa-police-shooting-man-killed-in-with-knife-deparment/10838821/
https://kfiam640.iheart.com/content/2021-06-28-coroner-releases-name-of-man-killed-in-azusa-police-shooting/

Aida Villavicencio

Age :86

Gender :Female

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/26/2021

Location : 3900 block of South Buckingham Road

City : Los Angeles

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Vehicle

Event : Bystander killed by police chase crash

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On June 26, 2021, 86-year-old Aida Villavicencio was in her home when a police chased a vehicle at high speed until it crashed into her home in the Crenshaw neighborhood of Los Angeles. The incident began when a driver rear-ended a Los Angeles Police Department patrol car near Hobart and Martin Luther King Boulevard. As officers approached, the driver fled. Police escalated a chase. The driver lost control of his SUV near the 3900 block of South Buckingham Road, crashing into the Villavicencio residence. Aida Villavicencio was pronounced dead at the scene. Her 92-year-old husband sustained critical injuries and was hospitalized.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/crenshaw-crash-suv-crashes-into-home-elderly-woman-killed-police-chase/10833912/
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/suv-driver-crashes-into-house-crenshaw-baldwin-hills-house/2625775/
https://www.californiainjuryblog.com/elderly-woman-killed-after-driver-crashes-into-crenshaw-home/

Abraham Torres Meza

Age :30

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/24/2021

Location : CA-99 and Houghton Road

City : Bakersfield

County : Kern

State : California

Agency : Bakersfield Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police after pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/24/2021, Bakersfield police attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle near State Route 99 and Houghton Road for a vehicle code violation. The driver did not stop, and police escalated a pursuit. The pursuit ended after the vehicle crashed. Police reported that three men exited the vehicle. Officers stated that one of the men was holding a shotgun. Police engaged Abraham Torres Meza and opened fire, killing him at the scene. Torres Meza was 30 years old. Reporting did not provide additional detail about commands given, distance, or the sequence of shots before police opened fire. The investigation into the police shooting was reported as pending at the time of coverage.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://kmph.com/news/local/southbound-hwy-99-at-houghton-shutdown-due-to-police-activity

Frederick Holder

Age :28

Gender :Male

Race : Black

Date : 06/23/2021

Location : Alondra Blvd. and Piuma Ave.

City : Norwalk

County : Los Angeles

State : California

Agency : Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during traffic stop

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/23/2021, Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a van driving erratically near Alondra Boulevard and Piuma Avenue in Norwalk. Deputies attempted a traffic stop and made contact with Frederick Holder inside the vehicle. During the encounter, deputies stated that Holder produced an object they believed to be a handgun. Deputies opened fire and shot Holder 17 times, killing him at the scene. Holder was 28 years old. After the shooting, deputies determined that the object in Holder’s possession was a lighter and not a firearm. The Los Angeles County District Attorney later cleared the deputies involved in the shooting.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-06-23/la-county-sheriffs-deputies-fatally-shoot-man-norwalk
https://theshaderoom.com/exclusive-los-angeles-police-shoot-unarmed-black-man-17-times-autopsy-photos-reveal-tsr-investigates/

Raymond Loftin

Age :36

Gender :Male

Race : White

Date : 06/23/2021

Location : 10 Freeway near Sierra Avenue

City : Fontana

County : San Bernardino

State : California

Agency : California Highway Patrol

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during pursuit

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On June 23, 2021, a man driving a stolen big rig was fatally shot by California Highway Patrol officers after a high-speed wrong-way pursuit through multiple Inland Empire freeways. The chase began when San Bernardino Police reported the theft of a flatbed truck. The driver was located on the 210 Freeway traveling westbound in the eastbound lanes. The chase continued onto the 215 and 10 freeways, with the driver repeatedly driving against traffic. CHP deployed spike strips near Sierra Avenue on the 10 Freeway. The driver attempted a U-turn and struck a CHP vehicle, at which point officers opened fire and killed him. A male passenger sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://abc7.com/10-freeway-fontana-closed-chase/10823415/
https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/big-rig-pursuit-police-shooting-10-freeway-fontana/2622922/

Eric Scott Anderson

Age :40

Gender :Male

Race : Unknown

Date : 06/18/2021

Location : 1800 Eolus Avenue

City : Encinitas

County : San Diego

State : California

Agency : San Diego County Sheriff’s Office

Officer(s) : James Clone, Sean Zappia

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during response to suspicious person call

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/18/2021, San Diego County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a suspicious person in a vacant lot on Eolus Avenue in Encinitas. Deputies made contact with Eric Scott Anderson at the location. Police reported that Anderson displayed a handgun during the encounter. Deputies opened fire and shot Anderson, killing him at the scene. Anderson was 40 years old. Authorities released limited information about the events leading up to deputies opening fire. The San Diego County District Attorney later ruled the shooting justified.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/news/courts/story/2021-06-19/man-fatally-shot-by-deputies-in-encinitas-identified
https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/2021/12/18/san-diego-county-da-clears-police-deputies-in-three-shootings-and-one-in-custody-death/

Juan Miguel Bejar

Age :37

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/15/2021

Location : I-215 Freeway near Ethanac Road

City : Menifee

County : Riverside

State : California

Agency : Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, U.S. Border Patrol

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during chase and shootout

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/15/2021, Juan Miguel Bejar, age 37, was pursued by U.S. Border Patrol and Riverside County deputies on I-215 near Ethanac Road. Bejar allegedly exited his vehicle armed with a handgun and fled on foot into traffic lanes. Deputies opened fire, and Bejar was pronounced dead at a hospital.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2021-06-17/deputies-kill-man-on-215-freeway-after-riverside-county-chase
https://patch.com/california/lakeelsinore-wildomar/man-shot-killed-deputies-i-215-identified-coroner

Manuel Rojas Barajas

Age :65

Gender :Male

Race : Latino/a/e

Date : 06/14/2021

Location : East Third Street and Paulin Avenue

City : Calexico

County : Imperial

State : California

Agency : Calexico Police Department

Officer(s) : Not Disclosed

Cause of Death : Gunshot

Event : Killed by police during disturbance response

OPEN RECORDS SUMMARY :

On 06/14/2021, Calexico police responded to a reported altercation between two men near East Third Street and Paulin Avenue. According to witnesses cited in reporting, one of the men was holding a weapon and did not put it down. Police confronted Manuel Rojas Barajas during the response and opened fire, killing him at the scene. He was 65 years old. Reporting did not provide clear detail about the type of weapon involved or the sequence of commands given before police opened fire. The investigation into the police shooting was reported as pending at the time of coverage.

SOURCE LINKS :

https://kyma.com/news/top-stories/2021/06/14/officer-involved-shooting-in-calexico/