Authorities Friday released the name of a suspect who was shot dead in Littlerock during an investigation by San Bernardino County sheriff’s detectives, one of whom was shot and wounded but survived.
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. on Aug. 5 in the 13000 block of East Avenue R-2.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, one of their 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 injured detective was flown to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster for treatment of a gunshot wound just below the rib cage. On Thursday afternoon, San Bernardino sheriff’s officials said the detective underwent successful surgery and was still stable.
“He continues to recover and is expected to be released from the hospital in the near future,” sheriff’s officials said. “We are grateful to members of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for their quick response, assistance and immediate medical care provided to our detective. We also want to thank the medical professionals and hospital staff at Antelope Valley Medical Center who continue to provide him with excellent medical care.”
The detective’s name was not released. San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus told reporters he is in his 30s and a 12-year veteran of the department.
The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. His name was Eduardo Sanchez Figueroa, 49. He died from multiple gunshot wounds, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Investigators said a weapon was found inside Sanchez’s vehicle. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna told reporters at a news conference he did not know how many shots were fired during the exchange of gunfire. He also provided no details about the investigation that led to the shooting, but said the deputies were 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.