Former Whittier Officer Pleads Guilty in Shooting of Unarmed Man

Salvador Murillo must give up his police officer certification in California after shooting incident left victim paralyzed.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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A former Whittier police officer, Salvador Murillo, has pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by a peace officer in connection with a 2020 shooting incident that left an unarmed man, Nicholas Carrillo, paralyzed. Murillo was sentenced to one year of probation, 200 hours of community service, and must pay restitution to Carrillo's family. He has also agreed to give up his right to serve as a police officer in California.

Why it matters

This case highlights ongoing concerns about the use of excessive force by police officers, especially in incidents involving unarmed individuals. The plea agreement reached in this case affirms that Murillo's use of deadly force was not justified, despite his claims of fearing for his safety.

The details

In April 2020, Murillo and his partner, Cynthia Lopez, were working undercover when they encountered a vehicle linked to a local robbery. When the driver, Carrillo, attempted to flee, Lopez fired several shots at the vehicle. Murillo then chased Carrillo on foot and shot him four times, striking him in the back and severing his spine. Carrillo was unarmed at the time. Murillo claimed he feared for his safety, but prosecutors argued the shooting was unjustified.

  • In April 2020, the shooting incident occurred.
  • In November 2026, Murillo stood trial but a mistrial was declared due to a deadlocked jury.
  • On February 23, 2026, Murillo pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by a peace officer.
  • Carrillo died in 2021 due to a drug overdose.

The players

Salvador Murillo

A former Whittier police officer who pleaded guilty to two counts of assault by a peace officer in connection with the 2020 shooting incident that left an unarmed man paralyzed.

Nicholas Carrillo

The unarmed man who was shot and paralyzed by Murillo in the 2020 incident. Carrillo died in 2021 due to a drug overdose.

Cynthia Lopez

Murillo's partner at the time of the 2020 shooting incident. Assault charges against her were dismissed at a 2024 preliminary hearing.

Nathan Hochman

The Los Angeles County District Attorney who stated that this conviction illustrates the consequences officers face when they recklessly open fire on unarmed individuals.

Ryan Tracy

The Deputy District Attorney who argued that Murillo did not have to fire four times at a man who was running away and unarmed.

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What they’re saying

“This conviction illustrates the consequences officers face when they recklessly open fire on someone who is unarmed and running away from them.”

— Nathan Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney (latimes.com)

“We believe he did not have to fire four times at a man who was running away and unarmed.”

— Ryan Tracy, Deputy District Attorney (latimes.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Salvador Murillo out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in holding police officers accountable for the use of excessive force, especially in incidents involving unarmed individuals. The plea agreement reached in this case represents a step towards justice, but also raises questions about the broader issues of police reform and the need for greater transparency and accountability in law enforcement.