Full Notification

NEWS RELEASE
Release Date: January 31, 2017
Modesto Police Department
Media Relations Unit
Office of the Chief of Police
600 10th Street, Modesto, CA 95354
Author: Heather Graves

Modesto, CA – A multi-agency investigation is underway for an officer-involved shooting that occurred last night in the 3700 block of Maserati Drive.

At about 9:00 p.m. last night, officers responded to a 9-1-1 call from a woman reporting a family disturbance. The caller indicated that her estranged husband appeared to be under the influence and was vandalizing her vehicle while she sat outside of her residence.

When officers arrived at the home, they contacted 42-year-old Spencer Herckt outside the residence. As officers were talking with Herckt, the situation quickly escalated and officers utilized their tasers. As the altercation continued, Herckt assaulted one of the officers in the back of the head with a large glass object causing both officers to deploy their duty weapons, striking Herckt. Medical personnel on scene attempted life-saving measures, but Herckt was pronounced deceased.

The injured officer was medically treated before being released. Both officers involved in this incident were placed on paid administrative leave, which is a standard procedure with all officer-involved shootings.

Investigators are in the preliminary stages of processing the crime scene, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.

Three separate and independent investigations have been launched into this incident. The Modesto Police Department is conducting both a criminal and administrative investigation and the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office is conducting an independent review of the incident.

If you have any information regarding criminal activity, please call Crime Stoppers at 209- 521-4636. Callers to Crime Stoppers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Tipsters may also text information to Crime Stoppers at 274637. Just type “TIP704” along with your message.

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