DATE: March 21, 2025, 8:03 p.m.
INCIDENT: Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: 100 block of Walnut Street, Needles
SUSPECT(S): Michael Ray Richard, II, 39-year-old Male Resident of Phoenix, AZ
VICTIM(S): San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputies
SUMMARY: On Friday, March 21, 2025, at approximately 8:03 p.m., a resident in the 100 block of Walnut Street reported a vehicle burglary in progress at his home. The resident caught the suspect inside his vehicle and the suspect fled on foot.
Two deputies from the Sheriff’s Needles Station responded and located a male, later identified as Michael Ray Richard, II, walking in the area. While deputies were detaining Richard, he pulled away and ran. Deputies pursued Richard on foot. Richard jumped over walls and returned back to the patrol units, where he retrieved a bag he had been carrying at the time of his detainment. The deputies caught up with Richard, who was armed with a handgun. Richard struggled with the deputies and fired the gun. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Richard was struck by gunfire. He was pronounced deceased at the scene. One deputy had minor injuries from the struggle.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation. During the investigation, detectives located a second firearm in Richard’s bag.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Antonio Alcala, Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Detective Antonio Alcala or Sergeant Troy Mooradian
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
Case No. DR#212500205 / H#2025-022
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
