A Baldwin Park police officer was killed in a shooting on Saturday evening that also injured another officer and resulted in the death of a civilian. The incident occurred around 7 p.m. when officers responded to reports of gunfire in the area of 4200 Filhurst Avenue. Upon arrival, they were immediately met with gunfire, leading to a shootout.
Officer Samuel Riveros, 35, was identified as the officer who lost his life. He was rushed to Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Riveros had been with the Baldwin Park Police Department since 2016 and was remembered as an avid snowboarder and a passionate Dodgers fan.
The second officer, Anthony Pimentel, was also shot but survived and was reported to be in stable condition. He was treated at the hospital and has since been released.
Baldwin Park Police Chief Robert A. López expressed his sorrow during a news conference, stating that Officer Riveros made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community. The governor’s office ordered flags at the state Capitol to be flown at half-staff in Riveros’ honor, and both Governor Gavin Newsom and Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis extended their condolences to Riveros’ family and colleagues.
The shooting also left a civilian man dead, though his identity has not been released. The suspect involved in the incident was apprehended at the scene and is currently in custody; he was also wounded but is in stable condition.
Residents in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots during the incident. One neighbor recalled hearing shots and quickly told children to take cover. Video footage indicated that at least 11 shots were fired, and investigators have recovered the weapon used in the shooting.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation into the shooting. The scene remained active for several hours, with law enforcement agencies from nearby cities assisting in the response. As the situation unfolded, many residents expressed shock at the violence in their typically quiet neighborhood.
This tragic event highlights the dangers faced by law enforcement and the impact of gun violence on communities. As investigations continue, many in Baldwin Park are left mourning the loss of Officer Riveros and hoping for the recovery of those injured.