By Gina Yarbrough
San Diego, CA–One of two suspects who had reportedly stolen a vehicle and fled from police was shot by officers, authorities said.
The San Diego Police Department received a call around 3:12 a.m. reporting two suspects were breaking into vehicles at an apartment complex in the 3400 block of Lebon Drive in San Diego.
When officers arrived on the scene they contacted the suspects inside a reported stolen vehicle. Officers gave the suspects verbal commands, but they fled on foot. Officers followed one suspect, identified themselves as police officers, and gave them verbal commands to stop.
According to the San Diego Police Department, it was reported that the first suspect turned towards the officers with a firearm in his hand. They further stated that the suspect fired at least one round at the officers. This prompted one officer to discharge his duty weapon multiple times. The suspect was hit with several rounds and went down to the ground. His firearm was located nearby. Officers provided medical aid before he was transported to the hospital. He is expected to survive his injuries. His name is being withheld at this time.
No officers were injured in the incident.
The second suspect who fled the scene was described as a Hispanic male, possibly in his 20s, around 6 foot tall with a medium build, wearing a blue mask, black hooded sweatshirt, and gray jeans. It is unknown if he is armed.
The Countywide Memorandum of Understanding and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Unit were called to the scene to conduct the officer-involved shooting investigation. The motivation and circumstances of the shooting are still under investigation.
When the Sheriff’s Department completes its investigation, it will be reviewed by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office to determine if the officers bear any criminal liability for their actions.
The San Diego Police Department will conduct an administrative investigation into the officer’s discharge of his firearm. The Commission on Police Practices will conduct a review of the incident and provide any appropriate recommendations.
