Man Fatally Shot by Alameda County Deputies Reportedly Had a Pipe, Not a Gun

The California Department of Justice is investigating the shooting near San Leandro early Monday.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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After Alameda County sheriff's deputies fatally shot a man near San Leandro, who they believed had a gun, an investigation by the California Department of Justice suggests he was unarmed and holding a pipe.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about police use of force and the need for greater accountability, especially in cases where individuals may not be in possession of a deadly weapon. The California DOJ's investigation under AB 1506 aims to provide more transparency around these types of shootings.

The details

Emergency dispatchers received a call around 3:20 a.m. Monday from a man who said he had a gun and expressed intent to harm himself and others. Home security footage shows the man walking toward deputies with an object, and the two deputies opened fire, believing the object was a gun. Neighbors later told KTVU that the man was holding a pipe. The man died of his injuries, and the two deputies are on paid administrative leave.

  • The incident occurred around 3:20 a.m. on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • The California Department of Justice is currently investigating the shooting.

The players

Alameda County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency responsible for the shooting incident.

California Department of Justice

The state agency investigating the shooting under AB 1506, a law requiring the DOJ to investigate law enforcement shootings of individuals not in possession of a deadly weapon.

Rob Bonta

The Attorney General of California, whose office is overseeing the investigation by the California Department of Justice.

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What they’re saying

“We must provide greater transparency and accountability around police use of force, especially in cases where individuals may not be in possession of a deadly weapon.”

— Rob Bonta, Attorney General of California

What’s next

The California Department of Justice's investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the results will be closely watched by the community and civil rights advocates.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for continued reform and oversight of law enforcement practices, particularly around the use of deadly force, to ensure that all individuals are treated fairly and with respect for their rights, regardless of the circumstances.