February 10, 2023 – San Bernardino County Sheriff Department officials report on Thursday, February 9, 2023, at about 3:05 p.m., a deputy from the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station initiated a traffic stop on a white Honda Civic.  When the vehicle stopped in the parking lot of an apartment complex on Kiowa Road, a male subject, later identified as Joel Chavez, exited the passenger seat, and ran into the apartment complex.  The deputy pursued Chavez on foot through the complex. Chavez produced a semi-automatic handgun, hid behind a wall, and began shooting at the deputy.  The deputy returned fire as Chavez retreated behind the wall.  Chavez dropped the handgun and was eventually taken into custody.  Neither the deputy nor Chavez were injured.   

The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and is conducting the investigation.  

Chavez was booked in at the High Desert Detention Center where he remains on a charge of attempted murder.  His bail is set for $1,000,000.

Anyone with information on this case is asked to contact the Specialized Investigations Division at 909-890-4904.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous should call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME or go to www.wetip.com.

DATE/TIME:  Thursday, February 9, 2023 / 3:05 p.m.

INCIDENT:   PC 664/187 – Attempted Murder and Lethal Force Encounter (LFE)

LOCATION:  13260 Kiowa Road, Apple Valley  

SUSPECT(S):   Joel Chavez, 32-years-old, Resident of Apple Valley

VICTIM(S):   Confidential