An armed driver experiencing a mental health crisis was shot after a freeway pursuit on I-215 on Monday.
At around 2:54 p.m., deputies from the Perris Sheriff’s Station were dispatched to the 5000 block of Western Way in Perris regarding a report of an armed male experiencing a mental health crisis. The reporting party provided a vehicle description and advised that the male was driving to the location armed with a handgun.
Responding deputies searched the area and located a vehicle matching the description on the northbound 215 Freeway and Placentia Avenue. Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the driver failed to yield, prompting a pursuit.
The grappler was deployed, bringing the pursuit to an end in the area of Harvill Avenue and Oleander Avenue. As deputies gave commands to the male, he produced a handgun, leading to a deputy-involved shooting.
Deputies rendered medical aid until paramedics arrived. The suspect was transported to a local hospital in critical condition.
No deputies were injured during this incident. The identities of the deputy and suspect have not been released at this time.
The deputy involved in the shooting will be placed on paid administrative leave according to department policy.
The investigation is active and ongoing. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to contact Riverside Sr. District Attorney Investigator James Ferrer or Riverside County Sheriff’s Master Investigator Dan Moody at 951-955-2777.
