A San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputy was shot and killed Monday afternoon while responding to a domestic violence call in Rancho Cucamonga, marking a heartbreaking loss for the law enforcement community. The fallen deputy has been identified as Andrew Nuñez, a six-year veteran of the department known for his dedication and professionalism.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the incident unfolded around 12:37 p.m. when deputies were dispatched to a home in the 12300 block of Hollyhock Drive following reports of a Hispanic male armed with a gun and threatening a woman. Upon arrival at approximately 12:42 p.m., the suspect opened fire on the deputies without warning, striking Deputy Nuñez in the head.
Fellow deputies immediately returned fire, rendered aid, and called for emergency medical assistance. Nuñez was airlifted to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton but sadly succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Following the shooting, the suspect fled on a motorcycle, triggering a high-speed chase that spanned several communities along the 210 Freeway. Multiple law enforcement agencies joined the pursuit, which reached dangerous speeds before ending around 1:35 p.m. when the suspect crashed near Campus Avenue in Upland. He was taken into custody and transported to a hospital for treatment of crash-related injuries.
Outside Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, dozens of deputies, officers, and family members gathered in a show of grief and solidarity as word of Deputy Nuñez’s death spread. Sheriff Shannon Dicus described the deputy as a model of courage and compassion, saying, “Deputy Nuñez was a dedicated public servant who risked his life to protect others. His loss is a devastating blow to our department and to the community he faithfully served.”
Deputy Nuñez had served with the department since 2019, earning widespread respect from colleagues and residents alike. He is remembered as a hardworking and selfless deputy whose calm demeanor and commitment to service inspired those around him. The Sheriff’s Homicide Detail, assisted by the California Highway Patrol and the FBI, continues to investigate the shooting and pursuit.
Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name pending formal charges. The department said funeral and memorial service details will be announced in the coming days. In a statement, officials urged the public to keep Deputy Nuñez’s family, friends, and fellow deputies in their thoughts and prayers during this time of immense grief.
