On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at approximately 10:09 am, Hemet Police Department Officers were conducting a follow-up investigation in the 800 block of South Harvard Street in the city of Hemet regarding a recent theft.
While searching the backyard of the South Harvard Street residence, officers encountered an armed male in an adjacent backyard. This male was later discovered to be unrelated to the initial investigation and a resident of the neighboring home.
As a result of the contact, an officer-involved shooting occurred, and the male sustained a gunshot wound. Lifesaving measures were immediately administered, and the male was transported to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
No officers were injured during this incident. The involved officer has been placed on administrative leave per department policy. The name of the involved officer will not be released at this time.
As in the case of every officer-involved shooting in the city of Hemet, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Force Investigation Detail, aided by the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office, will conduct this investigation. This is an active and ongoing investigation; anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.
For further media inquiries regarding this incident, contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.