May 9, 2023 - San Bernardino County Sheriff Department officials report that on Saturday, May 6, 2023, deputies at the Big Bear Station received a call for service in the 600 block of Booth Way, reporting a man with a gun. Reporting parties said the man, later identified as John Stephan, was in the street screaming and shooting a gun.

Deputies arrived and attempted to negotiate with Stephan. After failed attempts to gain Stephan’s cooperation, Stephan shot himself in the chest. Deputies provided medical assistance to Stephan until emergency medical services arrived. He was taken to a trauma center for treatment, where he was later pronounced deceased.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division are conducting the investigation. Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Francisco Demara, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.

DATE/TIME: May 6, 2023, 9:57 a.m.

INCIDENT: Death Investigation

LOCATION: 600 block of Booth Way, Big Bear City

SUSPECT(S): John Stephan, 63-year-old Resident of Big Bear City (Deceased)

Refer: Detective Francisco Demara or Sergeant Nicolas Craig

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No. (909) 890-4904

Case No. DR#062300270 / H#2023-049

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff Department