2 Killed, Including Police Officer, in California Shooting; Suspect in Custody, Sheriff Says
BALDWIN PARK, CALIFORNIA – A tragic shooting incident unfolded late Friday in Baldwin Park, California, leaving two people dead, including a police officer, and another officer wounded. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed the details during a midnight press conference led by Sheriff Robert G. Luna.
The suspect, identified as Dani James, is now in custody and is believed to have acted alone. Sheriff Luna described the scene as a “double homicide,” confirming that the two fatalities included a Baldwin Park Police Department officer and a second adult male, who has not yet been publicly identified pending family notification.
According to officials, the incident began when officers from the Baldwin Park Police Department responded to an emergency call reporting a person actively firing a rifle in a residential area. Upon arrival, officers were immediately met with gunfire. Two officers were struck during the exchange, one of whom succumbed to their injuries.
The surviving officer was rushed to a local hospital, where they are currently listed in stable condition. Sheriff Luna did not provide specific details on the nature of their injuries but emphasized that the officer was receiving appropriate medical care.
“This is a dark day for our law enforcement family and our community,” said Luna, visibly emotional. “We have lost a brave officer who gave their life in the line of duty, and another individual who was caught in this senseless act of violence.”
Authorities quickly established a perimeter and engaged in what was described as a tense standoff before apprehending the suspect without further incident. Dani James was taken into custody and is expected to face multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder of a peace officer, and illegal possession and use of a firearm.
Investigators are still working to determine the motive behind the attack. “We don’t yet know why this individual opened fire,” said Luna. “That will be a key focus of our ongoing investigation.”
The community of Baldwin Park, located about 20 miles east of downtown Los Angeles, has been left shaken. City officials have expressed condolences to the families of the victims and gratitude to the officers who responded swiftly to the dangerous situation.
Local, state, and federal agencies, including the California Department of Justice and the FBI, are assisting in the investigation. The scene remains active as detectives continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses.
The name of the fallen officer has not yet been released to the public, pending family notification. A procession is expected to take place in honor of the officer in the coming days, as law enforcement agencies from across the state prepare to pay tribute.
Meanwhile, community members are organizing a vigil and support efforts for the victims and their families. “We are devastated,” said a Baldwin Park resident at the scene. “This is not just a tragedy for the police department—it’s a tragedy for all of us.”
As more details emerge, authorities are urging anyone with information or video footage related to the shooting to come forward.
This story is developing and will be updated as more information becomes available.