An investigation was continuing Thursday in an exchange of gunfire that left a suspect dead and a San Bernardino County sheriff’s detective injured during an unspecified investigation in the remote Littlerock area in northern Los Angeles County.
Los Angeles County sheriff’s homicide detectives were working with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to investigate the shooting, which occurred around 3:10 p.m. Wednesday in the 13000 block of East Avenue R-2.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, one of the agency’s detectives was shot “while conducting a follow-up investigation.” No details about the nature of the investigation were released.
It was unclear exactly what led up to the gunfire. Video from the scene showed a white SUV that appeared to be the focus of the investigation.
The detective who was wounded was flown to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster. San Bernardino County sheriff’s officials said the detective sustained a gunshot wound to the upper body and was hospitalized with stable vital signs. The detective’s name and background were not released.
A suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect’s name also was not released.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, a weapon was found in the suspect’s vehicle.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna told reporters at a Wednesday evening news conference he did not know how many shots were fired during the exchange of gunfire. He also provided no details about the nature of the investigation that led to the shooting, but said the deputies were clearly dealing with a violent suspect.
“He was armed, dangerous and he was willing to shoot it out with police,” Luna said.
Anyone with additional information on the shooting was urged to call the Sheriff’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477 or visit lacrimestoppers.org.