Los Angeles/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on March 27, 2024
UPDATE: Names of Deputies Revealed in Fatal Shooting of Teen in Apple Valley, Investigation Ongoing

A potentially deadly clash between a teenage suspect and law enforcement officers in Apple Valley earlier this month has taken another twist, as the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department disclosed the names of the deputies involved. On the afternoon of March 9, Deputy Wyatt Eisenbrey and Deputy Brandon Clancy were called to a scene that would ultimately lead to the use of lethal force against 15-year-old Ryan Gainer, an Apple Valley resident.

The encounter, occurring in the 13400 block of Iroquois Road, unfolded rapidly after deputies responded to a distressed 9-1-1 call. Reports from family members indicated that Gainer was assaulting relatives and wreaking havoc on the property. Upon arrival, Deputy Eisenbrey faced an immediate and grave threat as Gainer, armed with a long, bladed garden tool, charged him without provocation, according to the department's account.

What started as a call for help quickly escalated, resulting in Gainer being shot by responding officers. Despite efforts by deputies to provide medical attention, the teen was pronounced dead after being transported to a local hospital. The sheriff’s release acknowledges this stern outcome, detailing the provision of aid and subsequent investigation helmed by detectives from the Specialized Investigations Division.

As per protocol for such critical incidents, detectives have taken the reins of the investigation to uncover the precise sequence of events, and the public has been urged to aide their inquiry. Authorities have requested information from potential witnesses, giving them the option to remain anonymous while offering assistance to Detective Shawn Thurman or Sergeant Justin Giles. For those wishing to come forward, the contact numbers are made available with assurances of confidentiality.

Details remain sparse on the motivations underlying the March 9 incident. However, with an investigation underway, the public eye turns to the Sheriff’s Department as they untangle this tragic encounter.