Baldwin Park Police Officer Shot And Killed
BALDWIN PARK (CNS) – A Baldwin Park police officer and another man were killed, and another officer was wounded by a suspect who was also shot and is now in custody, authorities said Sunday.
“I have the tragic duty to advise that one of our officers was murdered tonight,” Baldwin Park Police Chief Robert Lopez said during a midnight news conference alongside Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. “Our officer was an amazing man. It’s extremely tragic to have to deal with this.”
Officials later identified the dead officer as Samuel Riveros, a nine- year veteran who was described as an avid snowboarder and Dodgers fan who had watched the team play at stadiums across the country.
Riveros’ LinkedIn page says he attended Pasadena City College and UC Irvine.
“Thank you for the courage you held and the deeply humble decision you made to protect and serve the people of Baldwin Park, may you rest easy,” Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, D-West Covina, said in a statement. “The sacrifices these officers make to keep us safe is unbelievable; something we are reminded of when we witness tragedies such as the one that happened last night.”
Riveros was a part of a response dispatched at about 7:15 p.m. Saturday to the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue, a few blocks east of the San Gabriel River (605) Freeway, regarding a man with a rifle, the Sheriff’s Information Bureau reported.
A male adult victim with a fatal gunshot wound was located at the scene. He was rushed to a hospital and pronounced dead.
“Officers contacted the suspect, were met with gunfire, and an officer-involved shooting occurred. Two Baldwin Park police officers were struck by gunfire,” according to a sheriff’s statement. “They were transported to a local hospital, where one officer was pronounced deceased and the second officer was injured, but in stable condition.”
Baldwin Park city officials said late Sunday morning that the second officer, identified by the sheriff’s department as Anthony Pimentel, was released from the hospital after receiving treatment.
The suspect, who was also struck by gunfire, was taken to a hospital where he had stable vital signs. The suspect’s weapon was recovered at the scene of the shooting, sheriff’s officials said.
“When danger erupted last night and the call went out for help, it was our Baldwin Park police officers who responded without hesitation, reflecting the best of bravery and conviction to serve,” Baldwin Park Mayor Alejandra Avila said. “On behalf of our council and city hall staff, I offer our sincerest condolences to the victims, our Baldwin Park police department community and the families of those affected by this violence.
“Last night was a night of tragedy for our community. Many in our community have been affected by these crimes, and I ask that you embrace your officers and neighbors, support them in their time of need and show one another the best of Baldwin Park.”
The Los Angeles Times reported that Ring cameras recorded 11 shots fired at 7:16 p.m. followed by six additional shots at 7:26 p.m.
Sheriff’s homicide deputies, who are leading the investigation, were going door to door early Sunday, interviewing nearby residents and trying to piece together exactly what happened.
“This is a heartbreaking and deeply devastating tragedy. Officer Riveros made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community,” the LASD said in a statement Sunday afternoon. “He, along with Officer Pimentel and their fellow officers, bravely responded to a dangerous call, fully aware of the risks involved. Officer Riveros gave his life in service to others, a profound testament to his unwavering dedication to duty and selfless courage.
“His loss is profoundly felt — not only by his family and colleagues, but by the entire Baldwin Park community and law enforcement family.
“The death of an innocent civilian only deepens this tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victim’s loved ones as they endure unimaginable grief,” the statement added.
Anyone with information regarding the suspect or the shooting was urged to call the LASD’s Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous can call 800-222-8477 or go to lacrimestoppers.org.
Copyright 2025, City News Service, Inc.
CNS-06-01-2025 14:09
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