Riverside County Deputies Shoot Suspect After Pursuit in Perris

The suspect drew a handgun after deputies used a grappler to end the chase, authorities say.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 4:23am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun magazine or spent shell casing, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, creating a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.The use of specialized police equipment and the potential for escalation during confrontations with suspects raise concerns about de-escalation protocols.Riverside Today

Riverside County deputies shot a man after a pursuit in Perris on Monday afternoon, according to the sheriff's office. The incident began with a report of an armed male subject suffering from a mental health episode, leading to a vehicle chase that ended when deputies used a pursuit-ending tool called a grappler. The suspect then produced a handgun, prompting a deputy-involved shooting. The suspect was struck by gunfire and taken to a hospital in critical condition.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces when responding to calls involving individuals experiencing mental health crises, as well as the potential risks and use of force during vehicle pursuits. It also raises questions about the use of specialized equipment like the grappler and the protocols around de-escalation during confrontations.

The details

According to the Riverside County Sheriff's Office, deputies were called to the 5000 block of Western Way for reports of an armed male subject suffering from a mental health episode. The deputies located a vehicle matching the description on the northbound 215 Freeway and Placentia Avenue, and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield, leading to a pursuit. As the chase continued, a K9 Unit patrol vehicle equipped with a grappler was used to bring the pursuit to an end near Harvill Avenue and Oleander Avenue. When deputies gave commands to the male suspect, he produced a handgun, resulting in a deputy-involved shooting.

  • The incident began a little before 2:55 p.m. on Monday, April 14, 2026.
  • The pursuit ended near Harvill Avenue and Oleander Avenue.

The players

Riverside County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the initial call and was involved in the pursuit and shooting incident.

Suspect

An unidentified male who was the subject of the initial call and the subsequent pursuit and shooting. He was struck by gunfire and taken to a hospital in critical condition.

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What they’re saying

“The deputy involved in the shooting will be placed on paid administrative leave according to department policy.”

— Riverside County Sheriff's Office

What’s next

The investigation into the incident is active and ongoing, and the Riverside County Sheriff's Office Force Investigation Detail is handling the case. Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex and potentially dangerous situations law enforcement officers face when responding to calls involving individuals experiencing mental health crises. It also raises questions about the use of specialized equipment like the grappler and the protocols around de-escalation during confrontations between police and suspects.