Santa Paula Police Department

On June 29th 2012, at approximately 2345 hours, Santa Paula Police Officers while on patrol in a marked black and white police vehicle in the area of Harvard Blvd and Olive St. attempted to contact a subject who was crossing the intersection S/B against a red light and impeding traffic. The Officers had pulled over into the entrance of the shopping center to contact the suspect when suddenly for no apparent reason and disregard for public safety, the suspect turned to face the officers holding a handgun in his hand. The suspect then proceeded to fire an unknown amount of rounds at the officers. The passenger officer immediately took cover while the driver officer returned fire striking the suspect once in his left hand. The injury was not life threatening. Additionally, one of the rounds fired by the suspect struck the rear quarter panel of the Police unit.

After the shooting, the suspect fled the area and a perimeter was set up to search for the suspect. With the assistance of Ventura Police Department, Ventura Sheriff’s Department, California Fish & Game, California Highway Patrol and the Ventura County Sheriff’s Helicopter, the suspect was located hiding in an apartment unit entrance alcove.

Once the suspect was identified, it was found out that the suspect is currently on probation with active outstanding warrants for weapon violations. He is classified and documented as a gang member out of Santa Paula.

The officers involved were not injured. The investigation is continuing at this time. Anyone who may have witnessed this incident are urged to call Santa Paula Police. 525-4474