Lethal Force Encounter Occurs After Deputy Responds to Trespassing Call on Rail Line in Redlands 

December 17, 2024 – San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Monday, December 16, 2024, at approximately 7:26 a.m., a deputy assigned to the Sheriff’s Transit Operations Division responded to the rail line between Nevada Street and California Street reference a report of trespassing. Upon arriving, the deputy encountered Jefte Vargas Ramirez on the railroad tracks. The deputy informed Vargas Ramirez to leave the tracks, due to the danger of trains traveling the rail line.

Vargas Ramirez refused to comply and immediately became confrontational with the deputy. Vargas Ramirez armed himself with rocks in both hands, approached the deputy in an aggressive manner, and a lethal force encounter occurred. Vargas Ramirez was struck by gunfire. Medical aid was rendered at the scene and Vargas Ramirez was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The deputy was not injured.

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

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

DATE: December 16, 2024 / 7:26 a.m.

INCIDENT: Lethal Force Encounter

LOCATION: Rail Line between Nevada St. and California St., Redlands

SUSPECT(S): Jefte Vargas Ramirez, 37-years-old, Resident of Redlands

VICTIM(S): San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy

Refer: Detective Tyler Loup or Sergeant Justin Giles

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No. (909) 890-4904

Case No. DR#762400563 / H#2024-131

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department