Police Kill Suspected Gunman in Pasadena Shootout

1 officer, 1 victim wounded in exchange of gunfire

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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A gunfight broke out between police and a shooting suspect in Pasadena, California on Monday evening, leaving the suspect dead and one officer wounded, authorities said. Officers responded to a call about a man who was shot in the shoulder near a train station, and upon arriving, pursued the suspect on foot for about three blocks before exchanging gunfire, resulting in the suspect's death.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers face when responding to reports of violent crime, and the potential for escalation of violence when suspects resist arrest. The investigation into the police shooting will examine whether the use of force was justified.

The details

According to city spokesperson Lisa Derderian, the initial shooting victim was taken to a hospital in stable condition, while the wounded officer was transported in unknown condition and underwent surgery. Investigators from the L.A. County district attorney's office were at the scene to investigate the police shooting.

  • The incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • The scene remained 'very active' as of 10 p.m. on Monday evening.

The players

Pasadena Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and exchanged gunfire with the suspect.

Lisa Derderian

A spokesperson for the city of Pasadena who provided details about the incident to the media.

Pasadena Police Chief Harris

The police chief who spoke to reporters at the scene about the incident and the concern for his officers.

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What they’re saying

“Whenever a call goes out over the radio, 'shots fired' or anything like that, it is as bone chilling as you can imagine. We're really concerned about our people, taking care of our people and making sure that they're taking care of each other.”

— Pasadena Police Chief Harris (latimes.com)

What’s next

Investigators from the L.A. County district attorney's office will be investigating the police shooting to determine whether the use of force was justified.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the inherent risks and dangers that law enforcement officers face when responding to reports of violent crime, and the need for thorough and impartial investigations into police shootings to ensure accountability and public trust.