California deputy shoots suicidal man after confrontation, Sheriff’s Department says

The suspect was hospitalized in critical condition. No deputies were reported injured.

A suicidal man who had stabbed himself in Jurupa Valley then advanced toward a Riverside County sheriff’s deputy who was attempting to treat him, prompting the deputy to shoot and wound the man on Saturday, June 8, the Sheriff’s Department said.

The suspect was in critical condition, said Lt. Deirdre Vickers, a sheriff’s spokeswoman. No deputies were reported injured.

The confrontation was set in motion around 11:12 a.m. when deputies were sent to 53rd and Cedar streets to check on a man who appeared to be bleeding and disoriented.

“Upon arrival, deputies contacted the male and began to provide medical aid. While the deputy was tending to the male’s medical needs, he produced a knife and began to stab himself. The male charged toward the deputy with the knife, and (the deputy shot him),” the sheriff’s news release said.

The suspect was hospitalized. His name was not immediately announced.

The deputy will be placed on paid administrative leave per department policy. A Riverside County District Attorney’s Office investigator assigned to the sheriff’s Force Investigations Detail will lead the investigation. Authorities ask anyone with information on the circumstances to call 951-955-2700.

Anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, or knowing of such a person, can obtain help by calling 988, the Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Crisis Lifeline.