Homicide in Fallbrook 

March 18, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that on Monday, March 16, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m., deputies from the Fallbrook Sheriff’s Substation responded to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon in the 3800 block of E. Mission Road in Fallbrook. Upon arrival, deputies located two adult males suffering from traumatic injuries. Deputies immediately initiated lifesaving measures and requested emergency medical personnel, who arrived shortly thereafter.

Despite these efforts, one individual succumbed to a gunshot wound and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The second individual, who was also shot, was transported to a local hospital and has since been released. Michael Burke, a resident of Fallbrook, was arrested for murder and attempted murder. He has been booked into the Vista Detention Facility. The incident occurred following an argument.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending confirmation and notification of next of kin. The identification of the surviving victim is also being withheld.

Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives have assumed responsibility for the investigation. Detectives are interviewing witnesses and collecting evidence to determine the circumstances and motive behind the incident. Based on information obtained thus far, this appears to be an isolated incident, and there is no known threat to the community.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call the Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330/after hours at (858) 565-5200.  You can remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office