RANCHO CUCAMONGA, Calif. — The Rancho Cucamonga community and the entire San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Deputy Andrew Nunez, a devoted husband, father, and public servant who tragically lost his life while protecting others on Monday afternoon, October 23, 2025.
Deputy Nunez, a six-year veteran of the department, was responding to a domestic violence call in the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive when he was shot while arriving on the scene. Authorities said the incident began around 12:37 p.m., when deputies were dispatched after receiving reports of an armed man threatening a woman inside a residence.
Just minutes later, at approximately 12:42 p.m., gunfire erupted as deputies approached. Deputy Nunez was struck in the head and was quickly airlifted to a nearby trauma center, where despite every effort to save him, he passed away from his injuries.
During a press conference later that day, Sheriff Shannon Dicus fought back emotion as he confirmed the tragic loss. “Deputy Andrew Nunez gave his life serving this community,” Dicus said. “He was the best of us—courageous, compassionate, and deeply committed to protecting others. Our hearts are broken.”
A Husband, Father, and Protector
Deputy Nunez leaves behind a loving wife, a 2-year-old daughter, and an unborn child due in the coming months. Known among his colleagues as a calm presence in difficult situations and a loyal friend to those who served beside him, his passing leaves an irreplaceable void in both his family and the department.
Friends described him as “the kind of person who made you feel safe just by being around.” Others recalled his devotion to his family — how he never missed a chance to talk about his little girl or the excitement of becoming a father again.
The Pursuit and Arrest
Following the shooting, the suspect fled the scene on a motorcycle, sparking a high-speed pursuit along the eastbound 210 Freeway. According to Sheriff Dicus, the chase reached speeds of 150 to nearly 200 mph as deputies pursued the armed man across the county.
The pursuit came to an end around 1:35 p.m., near Campus Avenue, after an off-duty law enforcement officer merged into the suspect, causing him to lose control and crash. The suspect was taken into custody and remains hospitalized in stable condition.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s identity, as the investigation continues.
A Department in Mourning
Sheriff Dicus spoke candidly about the increasing dangers faced by law enforcement officers in San Bernardino County. “This marks my 81st officer-involved shooting,” he said. “There’s a tremendous amount of violence out there. Our deputies are doing everything they can to keep this county safe — and I stand behind them fully. We will not back down from protecting our citizens.”
He added, “We’re not going to get caught up in politics. We’re going to do the hard job, and we’re going to be unapologetic for doing it. I just don’t want to see this happen to another one of my deputies — or any citizen in this county.”
Remembering a Life of Service
As news of Deputy Nunez’s passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the state. Flags at sheriff’s stations and city buildings have been lowered to half-staff, while a growing memorial outside the Rancho Cucamonga Station now overflows with flowers, candles, and handwritten messages of love and gratitude.
In a heartfelt statement, the department shared:
“Rest in eternal peace, Deputy Nunez. Your watch has concluded, but your spirit, service, and sacrifice will live forever in the hearts of those you protected.”
A Legacy That Lives On
Deputy Andrew Nunez will be remembered not only as a brave deputy but as a kind soul who loved his family, cared deeply for his community, and lived each day with integrity and purpose. His courage in the face of danger serves as a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the men and women who wear the badge.
As Rancho Cucamonga mourns this devastating loss, the community stands united in grief and gratitude — honoring a life cut short too soon, but one that left behind an everlasting mark of love, service, and heroism.
Rest in peace, Deputy Andrew Nunez. Your watch has ended, but your legacy will endure forever.