Lethal Force Encounter Occurs After Deputies Respond to a Suspect Assaulting Family Members 

March 11, 2024 - San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at approximately 4:48 p.m., deputies from the Apple Valley Police Department responded to an emergency 9-1-1 call at a residence in the 13400 block of Iroquois Road. The family reported to Sheriff’s Dispatch Ryan Gainer was actively assaulting family members and damaging property at the residence.

At approximately 4:54 p.m., the first deputy arrived at the residence and was confronted by Gainer, who was armed with an approximately five-foot-long garden tool, with a sharp bladed end. Without provocation, Gainer raised the bladed end of the tool and ran toward the deputy. The deputy retreated and Gainer chased the deputy in an attempt to assault him with the bladed end of the tool.  A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire. Deputies quickly rendered medical aid to Gainer and continued until paramedics arrived. Gainer was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Shawn Thurman or Sergeant Justin Giles at the Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.

DATE/TIME: March 9, 2024 / 4:48 p.m.

INCIDENT: Attempted Murder of Peace Officer / Lethal Force Encounter

LOCATION: 13400 block of Iroquois Road, Apple Valley

SUSPECT: Ryan Gainer, 15-year-old male, Apple Valley Resident

VICTIM: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy

Case No. DR#182401148 / H#2024-022

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department