San Bernardino County Sheriff's Deputy Killed in Line of Duty During High-Speed Chase

An unmarked police vehicle collided with the suspect during a high-speed pursuit.

California:

A San Bernardino County sheriff's deputy was fatally shot on Monday afternoon while responding to an incident involving an armed individual threatening a woman in Rancho Cucamonga, which led to a dramatic high-speed chase ending on a Southern California freeway. The deceased officer, Deputy Andrew Nunez, had been with the department for six years and is survived by his two-year-old daughter and pregnant wife. During a press briefing, Sheriff Shannon Dicus expressed grief, stating, "We're embedded in sorrow. Unfortunately for our department, this has happened way too often."

The incident began at approximately 12:37 pm local time in the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive, where Deputy Nunez and colleagues were dispatched following reports of an armed man threatening a woman. According to law enforcement officials, the suspect opened fire, fatally wounding Nunez before escaping on a motorcycle.

A large-scale pursuit followed, involving multiple law enforcement agencies across the region. According to police reports, the suspect reached speeds exceeding 150 miles per hour (over 240 kmph) while traveling eastbound on the 210 Freeway.

Subsequently released video footage shows an unmarked sheriff's vehicle deliberately striking the suspect's motorcycle, throwing him to the ground and terminating the pursuit. Officials described this action as a "pursuit intervention technique" executed by a narcotics deputy from the department.

The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, was transported to a nearby hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. Authorities have indicated that he will be charged with murder once medically cleared.

The Los Angeles Times quoted Sheriff Dicus saying that the department would concentrate on supporting Nunez's family and ensuring justice for the suspect. "Our deputies are heartbroken," he added. "We've lost not only a colleague but a friend, a husband, and a father."

Deputy Nunez's death represents the latest in a series of violent incidents involving law enforcement in California's Inland Empire, raising renewed concerns about officer safety and the increasing dangers associated with field response calls.

A memorial service honoring the fallen deputy is expected to be announced in the coming days.