HEMET, CA – A suspect was fatally shot by law enforcement in California after allegedly initiating a shootout during a domestic dispute. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station responded to a call about a physical altercation between family members on Jepson Court late Tuesday night. During the dispute, a woman was injured but her injuries were not life-threatening.
Upon arrival, deputies approached the suspect at the front door of the residence. The suspect was non-compliant, shutting the door on the officers. Moments later, the suspect, armed with an assault rifle and wearing body armor, began firing at the deputies from within the house, according to Sergeant Wenndy Brito-Gonzalez.
The suspect subsequently exited the house, continuing to fire at the deputies. In response, at least one deputy returned fire, hitting the suspect.
Following the shootout, deputies provided medical assistance until paramedics arrived. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead. No deputies were injured in the incident.
The woman injured during the initial domestic dispute was treated at the scene. In line with department policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave. The identities of both the deputy and the suspect have not been disclosed.
The shooting is currently under investigation by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Force Investigations Detail. Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Investigator Mario Moreno or Master Investigator Martin Alfaro at 951-955-2777.