Marina police fatally shoot man during traffic stop
Police in Monterey County fatally shot a driver during a traffic stop over the weekend, according to authorities.
According to the Marina Police Department, officers pulled over a driver in the Marina Heights area near Bluffs Drive around 4:55 p.m. Sunday. During the traffic stop, police shot the driver, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officers seized a firearm during the incident. Police did not provide details on what led up to the shooting.
Authorities did not release the driver's identity.
"Our community experienced a tragic event yesterday and mourns the loss of life following an officer-involved incident. I extend my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones affected, while also acknowledging the officers involved during this difficult time," Mayor Bruce C. Delgado said in a statement Monday morning. "Whenever a life is lost in our city, it is a sobering and devastating moment"
The officers who were involved were not injured and were placed on administrative leave, which police said was standard practice.
Following the shooting, the Monterey County District Attorney's Office was called to the scene. The DA's office is the lead agency in the investigation.
"Our Department's thoughts are with everyone impacted by this tragic incident," Police Chief Randy Hopkins said. "We are committed to a transparent investigation process that ensures the integrity of the investigation."
Following the shooting, officials announced that the city has paused public event programming, including the Martin Luther King Day Jr. Celebration by the city's library that was scheduled for Monday morning.
"Dr. King's message can guide us during difficult moments to lead with compassion, dignity and unity," said the mayor. "While we may not be gathering today, we can honor his legacy with our actions and words we choose every day of the year."