LOS ANGELES, CA – A man carrying what appeared to be a loaded rifle was shot and killed by police in downtown Santa Ana on Sunday evening, authorities said. The weapon was later determined to be a replica, according to investigators.
The Santa Ana Police Department (SAPD) said officers responded to multiple 911 calls around 5:30 p.m. reporting a man allegedly loading ammunition into a firearm near the intersection of North Broadway and West Second Street.
Upon arrival, officers confronted the suspect, leading to what police described as an “altercation.” During the encounter, officers discharged their weapons, striking the man.
He was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
After the incident, investigators discovered that the firearm the man was holding was a replica designed to look like a real rifle. It remains unclear if officers were aware of this at the time of the shooting.
Video from the aftermath of the shooting showed a large police presence, with dozens of evidence markers scattered across the street in front of an apartment building’s parking garage.
Authorities said no bystanders or officers were injured during the incident.
Details about what led officers to open fire have not yet been disclosed, and the identity of the deceased man has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Under California law, any police shooting resulting in a civilian death must be reviewed by the state Attorney General’s office if the person was unarmed. The office has confirmed it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting to determine compliance with state policies on the use of deadly force.
Additionally, the SAPD’s internal affairs division and the Orange County District Attorney’s office will conduct their own parallel investigations, standard protocol in officer-involved shootings.
The incident has sparked concerns within the Santa Ana community regarding law enforcement’s response to individuals with non-lethal weapons. Advocates have called for greater training to help officers distinguish between real and replica firearms, particularly in high-pressure situations.
“This tragic event highlights the urgent need for clearer protocols when it comes to handling situations involving non-lethal weapons,” said one local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
The incident comes amid heightened scrutiny of law enforcement practices across California, with communities pushing for increased transparency and accountability in police shootings.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the incident or has information related to the case to contact the SAPD Homicide Section at (714) 245-8390. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS or www.occrimestoppers.org.
Further updates on the investigation are expected as additional details emerge.
