Tulare County Mourns Detective Randy Hoppert

Public viewing announced for slain law enforcement officer

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a police badge or handcuff, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The tragic loss of Detective Hoppert underscores the dangers law enforcement officers face while serving their communities.Porterville Today

Tulare County Sheriff's Office Detective Randy Hoppert was killed on April 9 while helping serve an eviction notice in Porterville, California. Hoppert was struck by gunfire from the suspect, 59-year-old David Morales, and later passed away at the hospital. A public viewing service will be held on April 27 to honor Hoppert, who was described as a fun-loving and confident officer.

Why it matters

Detective Hoppert's death is a tragic loss for the Tulare County community, highlighting the dangers law enforcement officers face while carrying out their duties. The public viewing service provides an opportunity for residents to pay their respects and mourn the passing of a dedicated public servant.

The details

According to the Tulare County Sheriff's Office, Hoppert was assisting a deputy in serving an eviction notice to Morales when the suspect opened fire. Hoppert was struck by the gunfire and later died from his injuries at the hospital. Sheriff Mike Boudreaux described Hoppert as a 'very good cop' who was fun-loving and confident.

  • Detective Hoppert was killed on April 9, 2026.
  • A public viewing service will be held on April 27, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The players

Randy Hoppert

A detective with the Tulare County Sheriff's Office who was killed in the line of duty while assisting in serving an eviction notice.

David Morales

A 59-year-old suspect who opened fire on law enforcement officers while they were serving an eviction notice, resulting in Detective Hoppert's death.

Mike Boudreaux

The sheriff of Tulare County, who described Detective Hoppert as a fun-loving and confident officer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Hoppert was a fun-loving guy who was very confident and a 'very good cop'.”

— Mike Boudreaux, Tulare County Sheriff

What’s next

The funeral for Detective Hoppert will be held the day after the public viewing service on April 28, 2026.

The takeaway

The tragic death of Detective Hoppert serves as a somber reminder of the risks and sacrifices law enforcement officers make to protect their communities. The public viewing service provides an opportunity for the Tulare County community to come together and honor the memory of a dedicated public servant.