BEAUMONT, CA, (LAI) – A suspect is now in critical condition after an officer-involved shooting incident in Beaumont, following a high-speed pursuit led by officers from the Riverside County Regional Gang Task Force. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening.
At approximately 7:16 p.m., task force officers located a wanted felon, believed to be armed, in a vehicle near Whittier Avenue and Girard Street in Hemet. The suspect, defying officer commands to surrender, fled the scene at high speed. The pursuit continued through Hemet, extending to northbound Highway 79.
The chase concluded in Beaumont, near Veile Avenue and Fourth Street, where the suspect’s vehicle became disabled. The individual then fled on foot, leading officers to a pursuit behind an industrial complex on the 500 block of B Street. During this foot chase, the suspect reportedly drew a handgun, prompting an officer to discharge their firearm, striking the suspect.
Following the shooting, officers administered medical aid until paramedics arrived. The suspect was then transported to a hospital, where they remain in critical condition. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department’s Sgt. Deirdre Vickers confirmed these details.