A tragic scene unfolded in Rancho Cucamonga on Monday afternoon when San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nuñez was shot and killed while responding to a domestic violence report, marking a devastating loss for the law enforcement community and the residents he served.
According to the Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched around 12:37 p.m. to a home in the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive, after reports that a Hispanic male suspect was armed and threatening a woman. Within minutes of their arrival at 12:42 p.m., the suspect opened fire without warning, striking Deputy Nuñez in the head.
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Fellow deputies returned fire and rendered immediate medical aid before the wounded officer was airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton. Despite the life-saving efforts of medical personnel, Deputy Nuñez succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
The suspect fled the scene on a motorcycle, sparking a high-speed chase that stretched across several Inland Empire communities along the 210 Freeway. The pursuit came to a violent end around 1:35 p.m. near Campus Avenue in Upland when the suspect crashed and was taken into custody. He was later hospitalized with injuries sustained in the crash.
Outside Arrowhead Regional, grief filled the air as dozens of deputies, officers, and loved ones gathered to honor their fallen colleague. Sheriff Shannon Dicus called Deputy Nuñez a model of bravery and compassion, stating, “Deputy Nuñez was a dedicated public servant who gave his life protecting others. His passing is an immeasurable loss to our department and to the community he served so faithfully.”
Deputy Nuñez, a six-year veteran of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, was widely respected for his professionalism, humility, and commitment to public service. Colleagues described him as calm under pressure and deeply devoted to his duty.
The Sheriff’s Homicide Detail, in collaboration with the California Highway Patrol and the FBI, continues to investigate the incident. The suspect’s name has not yet been released as authorities prepare formal charges.
Funeral and memorial arrangements for Deputy Nuñez will be announced soon. Officials have asked the public to keep his family, friends, and fellow deputies in their thoughts and prayers as they grieve the loss of a true hero.