A fatal shooting involving law enforcement unfolded in the San Antonio Heights area of Upland, as specialized detectives from the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department are investigating the lethal force encounter that took place on February 24, 2024.
The incident began when Cesar Martha, age 50, of Fontana, contacted 9-1-1 to report being followed, stating that he was "armed with a handgun." Responding deputies found his vehicle parked in the 2600 block of North Mountain Avenue, whereupon hearing gunshots, they requested the assistance of Sheriff's Aviation in locating Martha. After a brief search, Martha was seen in the hills, firing his handgun without a clear target.
The Specialized Enforcement Division (SED) was subsequently called in. Crisis negotiators engaged multiple times with Martha in an attempt to have him surrender without further incident. However, Martha unexpectedly fled from his hiding spot and charged towards officers, still armed. According to a statement released by the Sheriff-Coroner Department, a "lethal force encounter occurred, and Martha was struck by gunfire." Despite attempts to save him, Martha ultimately died from his injuries on the scene.
The ongoing investigation is now in the hands of the Sheriff's Specialized Investigations Division. The department urges anyone with information regarding this event to reach out to Detective Ian Gosswiller, as noted in the official release. Confidential tips can also be forwarded to We-Tip by calling 800-78CRIME or visiting their website. Martha's sudden exit and the ensuing gunfire left the neighborhood rattled, in a community unaccustomed to such violent disruptions.
