On June 5, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) responded to a report of a male with a bandaged, bloody arm at the Bear River Recreation Center. The individual was uncooperative but in need of medical attention. Despite requests for emergency medical assistance, the subject refused treatment.
Around 3:30 p.m., after deputies cleared the scene, the subject became combative and confronted officers with a weapon. An HCSO deputy discharged their weapon, striking the suspect.
Medical assistance was provided immediately, and the suspect was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead. The deceased is identified as a 29-year-old white male who does not appear to be from Humboldt County or associated with Bear River Rancheria.
The case is under investigation by the Critical Incident Response Team alongside the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office and HCSO Major Crimes Division. The investigation will continue for several hours, keeping the roadway closed for evidence collection. The incident was witnessed by several people and recorded on body-worn cameras.
Further information will be released as it becomes available. Anyone with information related to this case is encouraged to contact the HCSO Major Crimes Division at (707) 268-2539.
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