DATE/TIME: March 23, 2024, 9:50 p.m.
INCIDENT: Assault on a Peace Officer
Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: Desert Area Southeast of the 15400 block of Halinor Street, Hesperia
SUSPECT(S): Keith Vinyard, 52-year-old Resident of Hesperia
VICTIM(S): San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputies
SUMMARY: On Saturday, March 23, 2024, at approximately 9:50 p.m., a deputy with the Hesperia Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Keith Vinyard. Vinyard had an outstanding felony domestic violence warrant for his arrest and failed to yield. Vinyard fled from deputies, driving recklessly at a high rate of speed. At the end of the pursuit, Vinyard refused to comply with commands and threatened to shoot the deputy. As additional deputies arrived, Vinyard armed himself with a large metal object and a lethal force encounter occurred. Vinyard was struck by gunfire. Deputies provided medical aid until emergency medical personnel arrived. Vinyard was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and collaborated with the Department of Justice during the initial phases of the investigation. Pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting the investigation. Inquiries regarding this incident should be directed to DOJ at [email protected] or (916)210-6000.
Refer: Detective Jacob Rollins or Sergeant Michael Warrick
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
Case No. DR#192402073 / H#2024-025
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
