Walnut Creek Police Release Body Cam Footage of Fatal Shooting

Video shows officers confronting man with BB gun, leading to deadly encounter

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:06pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a black BB pistol against a stark, dark background, highlighting the detailed texture and design of the object to conceptually illustrate the complexities of this police shooting incident.The discovery of a realistic-looking BB gun after the fatal police shooting has fueled community concerns about use of force and transparency.Walnut Creek Today

The Walnut Creek Police Department has released body camera footage from the fatal shooting of 46-year-old Joaquin 'Tony' Pereyra on February 26. The video shows officers responding to reports of a man looking into homes and vehicles, leading to a confrontation where one officer fired his weapon just five seconds after exiting his patrol car.

Why it matters

The release of the body cam footage is an effort by the Walnut Creek Police to provide transparency to the community following this tragic incident. The shooting has raised concerns about police use of force, especially when dealing with individuals experiencing mental health issues.

The details

The video shows officers Corp. Nick Michels and Officer Mike Lee confronting Pereyra, who was allegedly carrying a sophisticated black BB pistol. After Pereyra failed to comply with orders to drop the weapon, Michels fired his service rifle, fatally shooting Pereyra. Police later found a knife on Pereyra's person. The footage includes enhanced and slowed-down segments that appear to show Pereyra pointing the BB gun at the officers.

  • The incident occurred just after midnight on February 26, 2026.
  • The Walnut Creek Police Department released the body cam footage on April 10, 2026.

The players

Joaquin 'Tony' Pereyra

A 46-year-old man who was fatally shot by Walnut Creek police after allegedly brandishing a BB gun.

Corp. Nick Michels

A Walnut Creek police officer who fired the fatal shots at Pereyra.

Officer Mike Lee

A Walnut Creek police officer who was on the scene during the confrontation with Pereyra.

Ryan Hibbs

The Walnut Creek Police Chief, who released a statement on the incident.

Kevin Wilk

The Mayor of Walnut Creek, who expressed the community's grief over the loss.

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What they’re saying

“This remains a tragic incident for everyone involved. Releasing this footage is an important step in providing transparency to our community. While the video footage shows part of what occurred, the full review includes additional evidence and analysis that are being examined through the investigative process.”

— Ryan Hibbs, Walnut Creek Police Chief

“Our community continues to feel the weight of this loss. We are committed to openness and accountability, and we ask that the community approach this footage with care and respect for all involved.”

— Kevin Wilk, Mayor of Walnut Creek

What’s next

The Walnut Creek Police Department's investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and the findings will be reviewed by the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex challenges police face when responding to calls involving individuals with mental health issues, and the need for continued dialogue and reforms to ensure greater transparency, accountability, and de-escalation tactics in these types of encounters.