DATE/TIME: February 24, 2024/4:56 p.m.
INCIDENT: Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: Mountain Avenue and Euclid Avenue, Upland (San Antonio Heights)
SUSPECT(S): Cesar Martha, 50-year-old Resident of Fontana
SUMMARY: On Saturday, February 24, 2024, at approximately 4:56 p.m., deputies from the Fontana Sheriff’s Station responded to a 9-1-1 call in which Cesar Martha advised he was being followed and he was armed with a handgun. Responding deputies located Martha’s vehicle parked in the 2600 block of North Mountain Avenue. While in the area, deputies heard gunshots and requested Sheriff’s Aviation to assist in locating Martha. The aviation crew spotted Martha in the hills of San Antonio Heights indiscriminately discharging the handgun.
The Specialized Enforcement Division (SED) was requested to assist and responded to the scene. Crisis negotiators attempted several times to have Martha peacefully surrender, but he refused. Martha suddenly exited the area where he had been hiding and ran toward deputies, armed with the handgun. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Martha was struck by gunfire. Despite lifesaving measures by deputies, Martha succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division are conducting the ongoing investigation.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Ian Gosswiller, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Detective Ian Gosswiller or Sergeant Michael Warrick
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
Case No. DR#032400616 / H#2024-014
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
