Gilroy, CA – A Campbell Police officer was involved in a shooting that occurred during a standoff with a male subject who repeatedly shot at deputies in unincorporated Gilroy for multiple hours.
On Sunday, March 26, 2023, members of the Campbell Police Department responded to a mutual aid request made by the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office in the area of Dryden Avenue in unincorporated Gilroy. The incident began early Sunday morning when Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a welfare check. While at the scene, a suspect began shooting a firearm at deputies. One deputy was shot during the gunfire, and the suspect barricaded himself inside a residence and continued to shoot at law enforcement personnel outside.
Due to the ongoing threat, the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office requested mutual aid from neighboring agencies. The Campbell Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team arrived with specialized personnel and our armored rescue vehicle. Multiple attempts were made to de-escalate and get the suspect to surrender peacefully, but he refused to comply and continued shooting at law enforcement.
After multiple hours, the suspect emerged with a firearm and began advancing on nearby officers. As a result of the suspect’s dangerous actions, a Campbell SWAT team member discharged their firearm once, striking the suspect. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital, where he is reportedly in stable condition.
The suspect has been identified by the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office as Vincent Martinez (35). Martinez has been arrested for Attempted Murder on a Peace Officer, Assault with a Deadly Weapon on a Peace Officer, and Felon in Possession of a Loaded Firearm.
The Campbell Police Department and the involved officer is cooperating with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office and the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office to investigate the incident. The officer who discharged their firearm has been placed on administrative leave per department policy. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Campbell Police Chief Gary Berg commented on the incident: “In the face of this extremely dangerous situation, our officers displayed exceptional bravery and professionalism. They remained calm and focused, and their quick actions helped contain the threat and prevent further harm to law enforcement and the community.
