DATE/TIME: February 5, 2023, 10:12 a.m.
INCIDENT: Suspected Arson, Evading, Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: Indio Avenue and Canterbury Street, Yucca Valley
SUSPECT(S): Antonio Garza, 44-year-old resident of Yucca Valley
UPDATE: February 7, 2023 - The suspect in this case has been identified as Antonio Garza of Yucca Valley.
All inquiries regarding the lethal force encounter should continue to be directed to the Riverside Sheriff's Department.
SUMMARY: On Sunday, February 5, 2023, deputies with the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station responded to a reported box trailer fire, at Indio Avenue and Canterbury Street in Yucca Valley. Upon arriving, deputies observed a man, believed to have started the trailer fire, and attempted to make contact with him. The suspect fled from deputies and a pursuit ensued.
The pursuit lasted approximately 35 minutes and came to an end at the Whitewater Cutoff, north of the 10 Freeway in Palm Springs, when the suspect attempted to drive off the freeway and the vehicle became disabled. A lethal force encounter occurred, and the suspect was hit by gunfire.
Investigators with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded to assess the situation. The lethal force encounter occurred in Riverside County and is being investigated by the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. Requests for information should be directed to the Riverside Sheriff’s Department.
Refer: Public Affairs
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 387-3700
Case No. DR#092300213 / H#2023-018
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
