BALDWIN PARK, Calif. — A Baldwin Park police officer was fatally shot Saturday evening during a confrontation with a murder suspect, officials confirmed. Officer Samuel Riveros, 35, was killed in the exchange of gunfire, while his partner, Officer Anthony Pimentel, was wounded but has since been released from the hospital.
The incident reportedly began with a dispute over a parking space in a residential neighborhood near the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue. Neighbors told Eyewitness News the suspect confronted a neighbor who parked in a spot, insisting the space was off-limits. When the neighbor ignored the warning, tensions escalated.
Shortly after 7:12 p.m., Baldwin Park police responded to a 911 call reporting gunshots and a person down at the residence. Upon arrival, officers were met with gunfire from the suspect, who was armed with a rifle. Both officers were struck and rushed to L.A. General Medical Center in Lincoln Heights. Officer Riveros was pronounced dead, while Officer Pimentel was treated and released in stable condition.
In addition to the officers, a third victim—a male—was found deceased in the front yard of the suspect’s residence. Authorities believe he was shot by the suspect, though further details about his identity remain under investigation.
The suspect was wounded by responding officers and taken into custody. He was hospitalized and listed in stable condition. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is leading the investigation and has not yet released the suspect’s identity.
Officer Riveros, a UC Irvine graduate, had served the Baldwin Park Police Department since 2016. He was selected for the SWAT team in 2019 and recently appointed as a field training officer in July 2024. Baldwin Park Police Chief Robert A. López praised Riveros for his professionalism, tactical skill, and community dedication. “His legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the example he set,” López said.
A procession honoring Officer Riveros was held overnight, drawing condolences from local officials and community members alike. Baldwin Park Mayor Alejandra Avila expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, urging residents to support law enforcement and one another during this difficult time.
California Governor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the State Capitol and Capitol Annex Swing Space to be flown at half-staff in honor of Officer Riveros.
Neighbors described the shooting as a chaotic scene, with gunfire lasting more than 10 seconds and sounding like fireworks. Multiple patrol vehicles and a police helicopter quickly responded, converging on the neighborhood.
As the investigation continues, authorities ask anyone with information about the shooting to come forward.