A tense confrontation between San Diego police officers and an armed suspect near Scripps Ranch ended in a fatal shooting earlier this week.
According to Yahoo News, the San Diego Police Department has identified Officers Brandon Jordan and Chris Lingenhol as the SWAT snipers who discharged their weapons during the incident, which began when a man allegedly threatened construction workers and a pest control worker with a handgun.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday in the 11600 block of Angelique Street when police responded to reports of a 59-year-old man pointing a semi-automatic pistol at workers in the area. One pest control worker was forced to barricade himself in his truck for safety during the confrontation.
Experienced SWAT officers take decisive action
Officer Jordan, a 17-year veteran assigned to Central Division Patrol, and Officer Lingenhol, who has served 10 years with the Mid City Division, both operate as SWAT snipers for the department. Their extensive experience proved crucial during the high-stakes situation that developed on Angelique Street.
The suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed pending family notification, refused to comply with police commands to drop his weapon. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, the man's actions forced officers to make a critical decision.
The situation escalated when the armed individual reportedly aimed his firearm toward the officers, prompting both SWAT snipers to discharge their rifles. The suspect sustained injuries to his upper body and did not survive.
Multiple investigations launched into officer-involved shooting
Following standard protocol, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit has taken charge of investigating the officer-involved shooting. This arrangement aligns with the Countywide Memorandum of Understanding for such incidents.
Detectives are currently gathering evidence, conducting witness interviews, and examining all aspects of the confrontation. The investigation aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the events that led to the fatal shooting.
The San Diego Police Department will also conduct its own administrative investigation focusing specifically on the officers' use of firearms during the incident.
Next steps in the legal process
The completed investigation will undergo review by the San Diego County District Attorney's Office to determine whether the officers' actions carry any criminal liability. This thorough evaluation ensures transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.
Authorities have recovered a handgun near the deceased suspect, confirming the presence of the weapon reported in initial calls. No officers sustained injuries during the confrontation.
The police department continues to seek additional information from potential witnesses, providing multiple contact options, including an anonymous tip line through Crime Stoppers.
Critical incident demands answers
The fatal standoff near Scripps Ranch has prompted multiple investigations into the actions of Officers Brandon Jordan and Chris Lingenhol, two experienced SWAT snipers with the San Diego Police Department. The incident began when a 59-year-old man allegedly threatened workers with a semi-automatic pistol, forcing one to seek refuge in his vehicle.
The confrontation escalated when the suspect reportedly pointed his weapon at officers, leading to the use of lethal force. As investigations proceed, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit and the District Attorney's Office will determine whether the officers' actions were justified under the circumstances.
