Los Angeles, California — A dangerous police pursuit across a Southern California freeway ended in a dramatic motorcycle crash Monday after a suspect allegedly shot and killed a deputy while fleeing from authorities.
Domestic Violence Call Turns Deadly
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a domestic violence report involving an armed Hispanic man allegedly threatening a woman in Rancho Cucamonga on Monday.
Officials stated that when sheriff’s deputies arrived, the suspect opened fire. One deputy was struck, prompting emergency medical response.
The injured deputy — later identified as Deputy Andrew Nunez, a six-year veteran — was airlifted to a hospital. Despite extensive medical efforts, he was pronounced dead around 1 p.m. after suffering a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
Sheriff Shannon Dicus confirmed the tragic loss in a press briefing, expressing the department’s grief, saying, “We’re embedded in sorrow.”
Suspect Flees on Motorcycle
Following the shooting, the suspect fled on a motorcycle, racing onto the eastbound 210 Freeway. Deputies, aided by aerial units, tracked the suspect weaving dangerously through afternoon traffic.
Video footage captured the rider reaching high speeds while maneuvering between cars. At one point, the suspect removed his hands from the handlebars to adjust a backpack, losing control of the bike.
Violent Freeway Crash Caught on Camera
Footage shows the motorcycle slamming into the rear of a sedan. The impact threw the suspect into the air, flipping before crashing down onto the pavement. The motorcycle rolled across his torso, narrowly missing his head by inches, as per The Post.
Authorities later confirmed the sedan was driven by an off-duty narcotics officer who executed a “legal intervention” to stop the fleeing suspect.
Police recovered what appeared to be a firearm lying near the suspect moments after the crash.
First Aid at the Scene
Officers rushed in, placing the visibly stunned suspect in a neck brace and providing immediate medical attention. After several minutes, he could be seen sitting upright and complying with commands.
Meanwhile, footage from the original confrontation site showed a patrol SUV with shattered windows and a bloodied ballistic vest on the ground.
Fallen Deputy Identified as Dedicated Public Servant
The Sheriff’s Office honored Deputy Nunez, describing his service as marked by courage and compassion:
“His bravery and sacrifice reflect a life dedicated to safeguarding others, even at the greatest cost.”
Nunez leaves behind his pregnant wife, their 2-year-old daughter, his mother, and four siblings. Sheriff Dicus called the deputy’s death “devastating to our law enforcement family and the community.”
Charges Pending as Investigation Continues
San Bernardino County District Attorney Jason Anderson confirmed the office intends to pursue murder of a peace officer charges against the suspect.
The suspect remains in stable condition at a local hospital and is under police guard. Investigators are awaiting medical clearance to question him.
Authorities continue to examine evidence from both the Rancho Cucamonga shooting scene and crash site along the 210 Freeway. Updates are expected as the case develops.
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