A suspected kidnapper is dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound following a car crash in Fairfield last night.
On December 20th, 2021 shortly before 7pm, Fairfield Police Department’s Flock Safety cameras located a wanted felony vehicle from a neighboring jurisdiction. The vehicle and associated person were wanted in regards to an armed kidnapping and carjacking. With the assistance of further Flock Safety camera notifications, and a citizen calling in, officers were able to locate the vehicle in the area of Chuck Hammond Dr and Peabody Rd.
Officers attempted to contain the driver, but he drove away and later crashed at the intersection of Peabody Rd and Air base Pkwy.
The intersection was shut down as officers attempted to communicate with the driver and de-escalate the situation.
When the officers could not get a response from the driver, a team approached the vehicle and found he was dead inside. Officers found a handgun and determined he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The driver was a 38-year-old man from Oakland. His identity is being withheld at this time.
The kidnapping and carjacking happened previous to last night’s crash and the victim had previously been released was not present.
Peabody Rd and Air base Pkwy were closed for approximately 8 hours while the scene was processed by traffic investigators, detectives and crime scene investigators.
Based on our close relationship and regional partnership with Travis Air Force Base, we notified them of the closure and restricted ability for base personnel to gain access through the main gate. Travis Air Force Base opened up the north gate for access until the main gate was accessible.
While any loss of life is tragic, we are thankful no other citizens or officers were harmed during this violent and unfolding incident.
