Yuba City Man Shot by Police Was Naked, Carrying Shovel

Authorities say the suspect assaulted a family member and resisted arrest before being shot by an officer.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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A 31-year-old Yuba City man was shot by police after he was found naked, attempting to ram the front door of a neighboring home, and then physically resisting arrest while armed with a shovel. The man, identified as Guillermo Figueroa, remains in critical condition at a local hospital.

Why it matters

This incident raises questions about the use of force by police and the appropriate response when dealing with individuals experiencing a potential mental health crisis. It also highlights the need for improved crisis intervention training and resources for law enforcement.

The details

According to police, officers were dispatched to the area after neighbors reported a naked man walking around. They found Figueroa attempting to ram the front door of a home, and when they tried to apprehend him, he fled on foot and physically resisted, including arming himself with a shovel. An officer then shot Figueroa twice in the torso. Figueroa had also allegedly assaulted a family member prior to the police encounter.

  • The incident occurred on Thursday, February 27, 2026.
  • Police released new details about the shooting on Friday, February 28, 2026.

The players

Guillermo Figueroa

A 31-year-old Yuba City resident who was shot by police after allegedly assaulting a family member and resisting arrest while naked and carrying a shovel.

Yuba City Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and was involved in the shooting of Figueroa.

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What they’re saying

“Figueroa armed himself with a shovel and attempted to strike the officers.”

— Mike Bullard, Yuba City Public Information Officer (fox40.com)

What’s next

The California Department of Justice is investigating the shooting, and the two officers involved have been placed on administrative leave, which is standard protocol.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for improved crisis intervention training and resources for law enforcement to better respond to individuals experiencing mental health issues or other crises, in order to de-escalate situations and minimize the use of lethal force.