VICTORVILLE, Calif. — Dramatic Body Camera Footage Captures Shootout Between Law Enforcement and Armed Suspect at California Gas Station

April 24, 2025 – Victorville, CA — A newly released body camera video from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reveals a harrowing confrontation that unfolded at a gas station in Victorville, California. The video captures the intense moments leading up to a one-on-one shootout between law enforcement officers and an armed suspect. The shootout resulted in the injury of a sheriff’s sergeant and the death of the suspect. The footage, which was made public by authorities, highlights the dangerous and high-pressure situations faced by law enforcement officers on a daily basis.

The Incident and Shootout

The dramatic altercation took place on the night of April 20, 2025, when deputies responded to a report of an armed suspect at a gas station in Victorville, a city in San Bernardino County, located in Southern California. The suspect, who was later identified as Carlos Ramirez, 31, of Los Angeles, had reportedly been involved in a series of violent confrontations earlier in the evening, leading law enforcement to pursue him. When officers arrived at the gas station, Ramirez was found on the premises and immediately engaged in a tense standoff with law enforcement.

The released body camera footage shows deputies approaching Ramirez with caution, as he was reportedly armed and had already made threats earlier in the evening. As the officers moved in, Ramirez reportedly pulled out a handgun and aimed it at the deputies, prompting a rapid escalation of the situation.

The Shootout and Its Aftermath

In the video, officers can be seen shouting commands at Ramirez to drop the weapon. However, the suspect refused to comply and instead opened fire, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire. During the confrontation, one sergeant, whose name has not yet been released, was struck by gunfire, suffering a non-life-threatening wound to his arm. He was quickly pulled to safety by his colleagues, who continued to exchange fire with Ramirez.

The body camera footage shows the chaotic moments as deputies sought cover while returning fire. Within moments, Ramirez was struck by gunfire and collapsed, ultimately succumbing to his injuries on the scene. Emergency medical teams arrived shortly afterward, but the suspect was pronounced dead at the gas station.

The sergeant who was injured in the shootout was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. He was reported to be in stable condition following surgery, and authorities have assured the public that he is expected to make a full recovery.

Law Enforcement Response and Investigation

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department released a statement praising the officers’ response to the dangerous situation. Sheriff John McMahon commended the sergeant and the other deputies involved for their bravery and quick thinking under fire. “This incident is a stark reminder of the dangerous and unpredictable situations that our officers face every day. They acted with professionalism and courage in the face of extreme danger,” McMahon said.

The sheriff’s department has confirmed that the incident is under investigation by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s Specialized Investigations Division, which is tasked with reviewing critical incidents involving law enforcement officers. The investigation will aim to determine whether the use of force was justified and ensure that all procedures were followed during the shootout.

Body Camera Video Released for Transparency

The release of the body camera footage has sparked conversation regarding transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The Sheriff’s Department made the video public as part of its commitment to providing the community with insight into critical incidents involving deputies. The video, which lasts just over three minutes, shows the dangerous nature of the confrontation and the quick decisions made by law enforcement officers to protect themselves and others in the area.

The release of body camera footage has become a significant tool in efforts to foster transparency within law enforcement agencies, especially in incidents involving the use of force. While the video captures the tension and fear officers faced, it also highlights the dangers that law enforcement officers regularly encounter while attempting to protect public safety.

Community Reaction

The release of the footage has drawn mixed reactions from the Victorville community and the broader public. Supporters of law enforcement have praised the quick and decisive actions of the deputies, acknowledging the life-threatening danger they were in. Many expressed relief that the injured sergeant is expected to recover.

However, the incident has also sparked discussion around the use of force and the challenges that officers face when confronting armed individuals. Activists and community leaders have called for continued dialogue on improving police training and ensuring that law enforcement practices are balanced with the safety and rights of citizens.

Looking Ahead: Law Enforcement Training and Safety

In response to the shootout, local law enforcement agencies have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that their officers are well-trained to handle high-risk situations such as the one that occurred in Victorville. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is currently reviewing its training procedures to ensure that deputies are equipped to respond to similar encounters with caution and precision, minimizing the risk of harm to officers and the public.

While the incident has left the local community shaken, the focus now is on supporting the injured sergeant’s recovery and providing the public with a thorough and transparent investigation. As the sheriff’s department continues its inquiry, the people of Victorville are left to reflect on the high cost of safety and the ongoing challenges faced by those who serve and protect.

Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety

Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident or the suspect’s activities prior to the confrontation to come forward. The investigation will continue, and the sheriff’s department is expected to provide updates as they progress.

As the community of Victorville grapples with the aftermath of the shooting, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department is working to ensure public trust is maintained and that such dangerous situations are addressed with the highest level of professionalism and accountability.