DATE: December 16, 2024 / 7:26 a.m.
INCIDENT: Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: Rail Line between Nevada St. and California St., Redlands
SUSPECT(S): Jefte Vargas Ramirez, 37-years-old, Resident of Redlands
VICTIM(S): San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy
SUMMARY: On Monday, December 16, 2024, at approximately 7:26 a.m., a deputy assigned to the Sheriff’s Transit Operations Division responded to the rail line between Nevada Street and California Street reference a report of trespassing. Upon arriving, the deputy encountered Jefte Vargas Ramirez on the railroad tracks. The deputy informed Vargas Ramirez to leave the tracks, due to the danger of trains traveling the rail line. Vargas Ramirez refused to comply and immediately became confrontational with the deputy. Vargas Ramirez armed himself with rocks in both hands, approached the deputy in an aggressive manner, and a lethal force encounter occurred. Vargas Ramirez was struck by gunfire. Medical aid was rendered at the scene and Vargas Ramirez was transported to a nearby hospital. Despite life-saving measures, he was pronounced deceased at the hospital. The deputy was not injured.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and are conducting the investigation.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Tyler Loup, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Detective Tyler Loup or Sergeant Justin Giles
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
Case No. DR#762400563 / H#2024-131
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
