San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nunez was fatally shot while responding to a domestic violence call involving an armed suspect. The suspect later led authorities on a high-speed chase along the 210 Freeway, ending in a dramatic crash.
Deputy Nunez, a six-year veteran of the department, was responding to a report of an armed man threatening a woman at an apartment complex on the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive, just three miles from his station. Upon arrival at approximately 12:40 p.m., the suspect opened fire, striking Nunez in the head. Despite immediate first aid from fellow deputies and transport by helicopter to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton, Nunez was pronounced dead at 1:13 p.m.
The suspect, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, fled the scene on a motorcycle, prompting a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds of over 150 miles per hour. The chase involved multiple law enforcement agencies and concluded when an off-duty narcotics officer used an unmarked vehicle to perform a “pursuit intervention technique,” knocking the suspect off the motorcycle on the 210 Freeway near Upland. The suspect survived the crash and was taken to a hospital in stable condition. He is expected to be charged with murder and potentially additional charges related to domestic violence once medically cleared.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Deputy Nunez, describing him as a “wonderful father” and “wonderful deputy sheriff.” Nunez leaves behind a wife, a two-year-old daughter, and an unborn child. “We’re embedded in sorrow,” Dicus stated, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by law enforcement officers in domestic violence situations.
The community and law enforcement agencies have shown an outpouring of support for Nunez’s family. A procession of over 100 law enforcement officers accompanied the transport of his body from the hospital to the coroner’s office. California Governor Gavin Newsom extended condolences, stating, “His courage, compassion, and dedication to protecting others reflect the finest traditions of law enforcement.”
The incident has reignited discussions about officer safety and the inherent dangers of responding to domestic violence calls. “Domestic violence calls are notoriously dangerous,” Dicus noted, emphasizing the unpredictability officers face when intervening in such situations.
A memorial service for Deputy Nunez is expected to be announced soon, as the department and community mourn the loss of a dedicated officer who served with honor and commitment. Flags at the State Capitol will be flown at half-staff in his memory.
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