A deputy-involved shooting that resulted in the death of 34-year-old Hispanic male Victor Rendon Jr. in Spring Valley is currently the subject of multiple investigations. The incident, which occurred on November 15, has prompted the release of a video by the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. In commitment to transparency and public trust, the video has been made available to the public, although the investigation remains ongoing. Viewer discretion is advised for the graphic content of the video.
The events leading up to the fatal shooting began with a call around 3:18 p.m. reported by a woman, an ex-girlfriend of Rendon Jr., claiming he forcefully entered her home and was under the influence and experiencing mental health issues, as reported by the Hoodline. After safely securing her four children present in the home, deputies confronted Rendon Jr., who discharged his weapon in the backyard, narrowly missing deputies within a harrowing fifteen feet. The encounter escalated until the man was shot by deputies at 4:55 p.m.
The San Diego Police Department is spearheading the primary investigation into the shooting, following a Memorandum of Agreement signed in 2022 that bars agencies from investigating their incidents, as noted by the San Diego County Sheriff's Office. To ensure a comprehensive and fair examination, the District Attorney’s Office will additionally review the police investigation. Moreover, the County's Citizens' Law Enforcement Review Board (CLERB) and federal bodies, including the FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office, are monitoring the proceedings.
The sheriff's deputies involved in the incident have been identified as Deputy Evan Carey, Deputy Chalit Carranto, Deputy Thomas Cook, Deputy Darryl Patmon, Deputy Frank Spinelli, Deputy Derek Trumbo, and Deputy Manuel Zamora. They all have varied tenures with the department, ranging from two to about twelve years. This information was disclosed by the Hoodline based on initial reports provided. Anyone with additional information about the incident is urged to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation by contacting the Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
The community's response to this tragic incident has been significant, indicating a need for clear answers and a just resolution. With the array of authorities involved, it is hoped that the full context of the events leading to Rendon Jr.'s death will be brought to light, providing closure to those affected. As the investigation unfolds, the San Diego Sheriff’s Office assures that the incident will undergo a meticulous review, in line with legal protocols and oversight requirements.
