By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department has launched an investigation into an officer-involved shooting by a San Diego Police officer that resulted in the death of a suicidal man on January 13.
The incident began when San Diego Police Department Central Division officers responded to a 6:54 p.m. call about a suicidal man at an apartment complex at 1150 E Street. A caller reported discovering their roommate had attempted suicide using a knife.
Two officers arrived at the scene within minutes and safely escorted six individuals out of the apartment. They then confronted the man, who was armed with a knife and threatening the officers. Despite repeated commands to drop the weapon, the situation escalated, leading to an officer-involved shooting.
Officers immediately performed life-saving measures until San Diego Fire Department paramedics arrived. The man was transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. No officers were injured in the incident.
The officers involved, each with four and a half years of service in the San Diego Police Department’s Central Division, are now under investigation per standard protocol.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit is leading the investigation, working to determine the circumstances and motivations surrounding the shooting. Detectives are gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and examining all aspects of the incident.
As part of the process, the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office will review the findings to determine whether the officers bear any criminal liability. Additionally, the San Diego Police Department will conduct an internal review of the officers’ actions and use of firearms.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to contact the Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330 or (858) 868-3200 after hours. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
