Chino Police Release Video of Fatal Shooting During Traffic Stop

Footage shows struggle between officers and passenger who fired handgun before being shot

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:43pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun shell casing on the ground, the metallic surface reflecting the harsh light and creating a dramatic, moody atmosphere that evokes the gravity of the situation.The chilling aftermath of a fatal police shooting exposes the harsh realities of confrontations on city streets.Ontario Today

Chino police have released body camera footage showing a fatal officer-involved shooting during a January traffic stop. The video depicts a struggle between officers and the passenger, 34-year-old Alberto Diaz Garcia, who police say had allegedly stabbed the driver the previous day and was holding her against her will. During the confrontation, Garcia is seen firing one round from a handgun before an officer shot and killed him.

Why it matters

The release of the video provides more transparency around the incident and the circumstances leading up to the shooting. It also highlights ongoing concerns about police use of force, especially in situations involving alleged domestic violence.

The details

The traffic stop occurred on January 21 just before 10 p.m. in Chino, California. Police say they pulled over the vehicle for an illegal U-turn. The video shows officers approaching the car, with the driver saying she had a valid license but left it at home. Both occupants initially provided false identification. After being asked to exit the vehicle, Garcia is seen on the ground between the car and curb, indicating he was having a heart attack. During a search, officers found a knife in his pocket. A struggle ensued, with officers repeatedly telling Garcia to stop reaching for his waistband. Garcia is then seen holding a handgun and firing one round toward the ground before an officer fired three shots, striking and killing him.

  • The traffic stop occurred on January 21, 2026 just before 10 p.m.
  • The day prior, on January 20, 2026, Garcia had allegedly stabbed the driver and was holding her against her will.

The players

Alberto Diaz Garcia

A 34-year-old man from Covina, California who was the passenger in the vehicle and was shot and killed by Chino police during the confrontation.

Chino Police Department

The law enforcement agency that released the body camera footage and is investigating the incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Hey, don't fight us. Don't fight us,'”

— Police officer

“'He's going to kill me.'”

— The driver

“'He's going to shoot me.'”

— The driver

What’s next

The shooting remains under investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office and the Chino Police Department.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex and often dangerous situations police face, as well as the need for continued scrutiny and transparency around use of force policies. The release of the body camera footage provides the public with a clearer understanding of the events leading up to the fatal shooting.