‘Truly tragic event.’ Police chief reacts to officer-involved shooting in Fresno

Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama on Thursday called the shooting of a man who reportedly pulled a replica-type weapon on two of his officers Wednesday night a “truly tragic event.”

“Our hearts,” he added, “go out to all who were involved and impacted. I am relieved my officers were not hurt, and no lives were lost.”

The incident, which took place at a shopping center near North Friant Road and Fort Washington Avenue in northeast Fresno, will be fully investigated and body-worn camera video will be released at “the appropriate time and in accordance with the law,” Balderrama said.

Police spokesman Felipe Uribe said parallel investigations would be conducted by the department as well as the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office.

The incident took place at 10:30 after police received a 911 call of an armed disturbance at Fort Washington Fitness in the center. The caller stated that a white male in a white Volkswagen had brandished a firearm and that he was “going to start shooting.”

Arriving officers conducted a felony traffic stop on a vehicle matching the caller’s description. Police said the car was being driven erratically in a dirt lot near the fitness center.

A preliminary investigation determined the 911 caller was the suspect himself. Police said he was driving erratically to get officers’ attention.

Police reported that the driver stepped out of the car with his hand in his jacket pocket and walked towards two officers, pulling his hand out of the pocket and pointing what appeared to be a handgun at them. The man then refused commands to drop the weapon, “forcing a response.” The weapon turned out not be a real firearm.

“Both officers fired their weapons in response to his actions,” police said in a prepared statement, and “quickly began providing aid to him and requested (emergency medical workers).”

Both officers were placed on paid administrative leave during the investigation.

The man, who was not identified, was taken to Community Regional Medical Center, where he was reported to be in critical condition.

Added Balderrama: “For many, the holiday season can be an emotional and stressful time. We encourage those who feel troubled or overwhelmed to seek out professional assistance for guidance and help.”

This story was originally published December 23, 2021 at 11:36 AM with the headline "‘Truly tragic event.’ Police chief reacts to officer-involved shooting in Fresno."