California Investigating San Bernardino Sheriff's Shooting Under Police Oversight Law

State officials announced the Department of Justice has opened an independent probe into the incident that resulted in one person's death.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:23pm

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The California Department of Justice is investigating an officer-involved shooting by San Bernardino County Sheriff's deputies that resulted in the death of one person in Riverside earlier this month. The investigation is being conducted under a state law that requires the DOJ to independently examine certain fatal police shootings.

Why it matters

The investigation aims to increase transparency and public trust in cases involving fatal uses of force by law enforcement. The DOJ's review is separate from any internal inquiry by the sheriff's office.

The details

The incident occurred around 10 a.m. on Jan. 22 in a shopping center parking lot in Riverside. Deputies were attempting to arrest the individual on suspicion of weapons, robbery and assault charges when the shooting took place. The DOJ's California Police Shooting Investigation Team has initiated its probe after being notified of the incident.

  • The shooting occurred around 10 a.m. on January 22, 2026.
  • The DOJ announced the investigation on January 26, 2026.

The players

Rob Bonta

California Attorney General who announced the DOJ's investigation.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency involved in the shooting incident.

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What they’re saying

“The DOJ's investigation will examine the circumstances surrounding the shooting, including whether the use of force was justified under California law.”

— Rob Bonta, California Attorney General

What’s next

Once the investigation is complete, the case will be submitted to the DOJ's Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for an independent review to determine whether any criminal charges are warranted.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of independent oversight and transparency in investigations of fatal police shootings, as mandated by California's AB 1506 law enacted in 2021.