An Escondido Police Officer discharged his firearm multiple times at a suspect who allegedly displayed a gun during a foot pursuit near the Escondido Transit Center. The incident, which left the man hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds, occurred yesterday, according to an official statement from the San Diego government's website.
A 911 caller reported a person with a gun at the Transit Center at 700 West Valley Parkway at approximately 7:38 p.m. The officers located a male subject near the area, who then attempted to flee, leading police on a chase that proceeded eastbound across Quince Street and onto a bike path. In the wake of the chase, the officer shot the suspect, Antonio Rosales, after he turned toward the officer with what was later identified as a revolver-style BB gun in his hand.
The San Diego Police Department has assumed control over the investigation, adhering to countywide standards for officer-involved shooting inquiries, according to Hoodline. The department will also handle all media questions related to this event as part of a routine practice for such incidents.
The officer involved has been with the Escondido Police for three years and was equipped with a body camera that recorded the pursuit and subsequent shooting. Rosales, a 34-year-old Hispanic male, is currently under arrest on charges of brandishing a weapon and resisting arrest while being treated for his injuries and may face an arraignment at the hospital. Moreover, the San Diego County District Attorney's Office will review the comprehensive investigation to assess the officer's criminal liability, all while being monitored by the FBI and the United States Attorney's Office.
Authorities are urging anyone knowledgeable about the incident to contact the Homicide Unit at (619) 531-2293 or to contact Crime Stoppers by dialing (888) 580-8477.
