A San Bernardino County sheriff’s detective was shot in the California desert Wednesday afternoon, sparking a massive law enforcement response that left the suspected gunman dead.
The detective was struck by gunfire at about 3:15 p.m. near East Avenue R and 130th Street in Littlerock, just east of Palmdale.
The wounded detective was airlifted to Antelope Valley Hospital for treatment. Officials have not released the detective’s identity or disclosed the extent of the injuries — but did reveal in an evening news conference that he was shot in the lower ribcage.
The person accused of opening fire died at the scene, though authorities have not said how the suspect died or released their identity.
Television news helicopters captured deputies surrounding the crime scene with yellow tape as investigators swarmed the rural neighborhood. Additional law enforcement officers gathered outside Antelope Valley Hospital as the injured detective was treated.
Homicide investigators with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department are assisting the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department with the investigation, which is being led by Lt. Michael Modica.
Officials have released few additional details as the investigation remains active.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.
