Sheriff's Detective Wounded In Desert Shooting

A San Bernardino County sheriff’s detective was wounded in a shooting on Wednesday afternoon during an investigation in Littlerock, a desert community near Palmdale, and a suspect was killed, authorities said. The shooting was reported shortly after 3 p.m. near East Avenue R and 130th Street, according to local television reports citing sheriff’s officials. The detective was airlifted to Antelope Valley Hospital in Lancaster and was listed in stable condition Wednesday night. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s homicide detectives are handling the investigation because the shooting happened in Los Angeles County. ### Where did the shooting happen, and which agency was involved? Littlerock, an unincorporated community in northern Los Angeles County, was the site of the shooting even though the wounded officer works for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Authorities said the detective was conducting an investigation near the intersection of East Avenue R and 130th Street when gunfire broke out. (abc7.com) San Bernardino County sheriff’s officials said the detective was serving or conducting a search-warrant-related investigation at the location. Los Angeles County deputies and fire personnel responded to assist after the shooting, and aerial footage showed a large law enforcement presence in the remote area. ### What do authorities say happened around 3:15 p.m.? (nbclosangeles.com) Authorities said the shooting happened at about 3:15 p.m. while the detective was carrying out the investigation. ABC7 and NBC Los Angeles reported that the detective and a suspect exchanged gunfire, and both were struck. Video from the scene showed a white SUV with shattered windows and apparent bullet damage, according to ABC7. (nbclosangeles.com) The same report said propane tanks and a long gun were visible inside the vehicle, while an unmarked San Bernardino County sheriff’s vehicle also appeared to have been hit by gunfire. ### How badly was the detective hurt? (abc7.com) Sheriff Shannon Dicus said the wounded detective is a veteran investigator in his 30s who has been with the department since 2014. Officials said he was shot just below the lower rib cage and taken by helicopter to Antelope Valley Hospital. Dicus said the air transport was critical to getting the detective to life-saving care. (abc7.com) Authorities said Wednesday evening that the detective had undergone surgery, was in stable condition and was expected to recover. ### What is known about the suspect? The suspect died at the scene after the exchange of gunfire, according to sheriff’s officials. (abc7.com) Authorities did not release the person’s name, gender or other identifying details on Wednesday night. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna said at a press conference that the suspect “was armed and dangerous” and “willing to shoot it out with the police.” Officials also said there was no continuing threat to the public. (abc7.com) ### What have investigators not said yet? Investigators had not disclosed by late Wednesday what crime the detective was investigating, what led up to the confrontation or what weapon the suspect used. (abc7.com) Authorities also had not provided a fuller account of how the gunfire unfolded. NBC Los Angeles reported that Los Angeles County sheriff’s officials confirmed two people were hospitalized, though the department did not elaborate on the second person. (abc7.com) Later reporting from ABC7 and KTLA said the suspect died at the scene. ### What happens next in the case? Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department homicide detectives are leading the investigation into the circumstances of the shooting. (abc7.com) Authorities said anyone with information should contact the department’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Thursday’s next steps are likely to center on witness interviews, evidence collection and the release of additional details about the suspect and the underlying investigation. (nbclosangeles.com) As of late Wednesday, officials had not announced any arrest beyond the dead suspect or any timetable for a fuller public briefing. (abc7.com)