LAKE MATHEWS, Calif. — Authorities are investigating the shooting death of a 50-year-old man in a remote area straddling the borders of Orange and Riverside counties. The incident occurred Friday night, prompting a response from local law enforcement.
Deputies from the Lake Mathews station answered multiple reports of gunfire just after 8:15 p.m. near Holy Jim Trail and Main Divide Road, a popular area near Santiago Peak. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that the shooting involved an off-duty sheriff’s deputy from Orange County, whose identity has not been disclosed.
According to preliminary reports, the deputy encountered a man who appeared to be intoxicated and armed. After identifying himself as a law enforcement officer, the deputy issued several commands for the man to raise his hands. However, the man allegedly disregarded these instructions and drew his firearm. In response, the deputy discharged his weapon, resulting in the man’s death at the scene.
The deceased has been identified as Agustin Vazquez Calvillo. Emergency responders pronounced him dead upon arrival, and no other individuals were reported injured in the incident. The sheriff’s Force Investigations Detail is overseeing the ongoing investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Investigators have secured the scene and are gathering evidence. They are appealing to the public for any additional information that could aid in the inquiry. Authorities encourage anyone with details to reach out to California Highway Patrol Detective Daniel Kavert or Riverside County sheriff’s Investigator Martin Alfaro at 951-955-2777.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting have raised questions about the protocols followed by the deputy and the dynamics of encounters between law enforcement and individuals in crisis. As the investigation unfolds, the community awaits further clarity on the incident and its implications for public safety in the region.