Man Identified as Imanol Aparicio Killed by Police in San Diego After Reaching for Weapon

Accident – Death – Obituary News : SAN DIEGO — The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department (SDSO) has released bodycam footage and identified the man who was killed by police in City Heights last week. The suspect, identified as 22-year-old Imanol Aparicio, was allegedly in possession of a loaded unregistered polymer 80 firearm and a backpack containing a loaded 30-round magazine with 13 rounds.

The incident began on the evening of Monday, November 13, when San Diego police received a report of a man shooting a female victim in the Teralta East neighborhood. The caller informed the police that the suspect was standing outside a home with a firearm. By the time officers arrived at the scene, however, the suspect had already fled. He was later located in the Cherokee Point neighborhood.

According to law enforcement, officers repeatedly instructed the suspect to remove his hands from his pockets. However, he responded defiantly, saying “Go for it.” The suspect then ran while reaching into his waistband. In response, officers fired multiple rounds at the suspect, striking him. Despite being hit, the suspect continued to move and pulled out a firearm. Officers fired more rounds, ultimately stopping the suspect’s movement.

A police K-9 was deployed to retrieve the firearm, allowing officers to secure the suspect and provide medical aid. Aparicio was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Fortunately, no officers were injured during the shooting.

The officers involved in the shooting have been identified as Sergeant Matthew Ruggiero, hired in 2005, Officer Jeremy Avalos, hired in 2019, and Officer Jonah Tafoya, hired in 2020.

Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330 or call Crime Stoppers anonymously at (888) 580-8477.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in addressing armed individuals. The release of the bodycam footage provides transparency and allows for a better understanding of the actions taken by the officers involved. The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather all available evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

It is crucial for law enforcement agencies to strike a delicate balance between protecting the public and ensuring the safety of their officers. The use of body-worn cameras helps promote accountability and trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily and the difficult decisions they must make to protect the public. As the investigation continues, it is essential to remain vigilant and support the efforts of law enforcement in maintaining public safety..