March 7, 2023 - Fresno Police Department officials release a message from Chief Paco Balderrama.

According to regulations set forth by AB1506, the California Department of Justice is currently conducting an independent investigation and review of the officer-involved shooting that occurred in the City of Fresno last Saturday.  DOJ’s investigation will coincide with administrative and criminal investigations conducted by the Fresno Police Department and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

In just over one month’s time we’ve had two Central Valley police officers shot by gang members who, according to California law, should not have been in possession of a firearm. Police officers willingly place their lives in danger to protect our community every day and will continue to do so. While I am always saddened by the loss of life, I am very thankful the City of Fresno did not lose an officer in-the-line of duty while protecting our community.

We welcome, support, and trust DOJ’s investigative process, and will assist and cooperate in every way we can. The information as we know it is as follows; the lone suspect in this case fired a gun at officers, a Fresno police officer was shot in the chest but thankfully his bullet-proof vest stopped the bullet from penetrating his body, one of our police vehicles received multiple bullet strikes during the incident, two firearms were found in or near the decedent’s vehicle, and freshly spent casings were found inside his car. (see pictures below) I am confident that DOJ’s thorough investigation will reveal all specific actions leading up to the shooting.  Additionally, there is body-worn video, which is being reviewed by DOJ, and cannot be released at this time.

I do want to ensure our community that the Fresno Police Department has been and will continue to do all we can to keep our community safe, reduce violent crime, and do so in an impartial and professional manner, with transparency and accountability.

Source & photos: Fresno Police Department