Police Shoot Man After Standoff in Redwood City; He Dies

UPDATE: A dramatic standoff in Redwood City, California, escalated into gunfire on October 3, 2023, resulting in the death of 48-year-old Jose Reynaldo Lombera at a nearby hospital. The incident unfolded just after 2:30 p.m., when police responded to reports of a man discharging a firearm on the 200 block of Hazel Avenue.

Authorities confirm that Lombera fled the scene after firing a weapon into a sidewalk. In response, officers quickly established a perimeter and deployed an unmanned aerial system to track him down, according to reports from ABC7 Bay Area.

As officers approached, Lombera reportedly brandished a firearm. In a critical moment, police fired both less-lethal and lethal munitions. He was struck, subdued, and received immediate medical assistance before being transported to a local hospital, where he tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the quiet afternoon turned into turmoil, with sirens blaring and multiple shots ringing out. Residents reported seeing a gurney being used to take someone from the scene, while police closed off streets for their investigation.

The Redwood City Police Department has placed the involved officers on administrative leave as a standard procedure following such incidents. The San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office is leading the investigation into the shooting, collaborating with the San Mateo County Coroner’s Office and local police, as detailed in their official press release.

Officials have stated that the investigation will thoroughly evaluate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Officer-involved incidents in Redwood City typically undergo independent review, with the DA deciding on potential charges based on the evidence collected.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Redwood City Police Department tip line at (650) 780-7110 or the DA’s office at (650) 363-4636. More details are expected to emerge as the investigation continues.

This tragic event highlights ongoing concerns regarding gun violence and police response, making it imperative for the community to stay informed. The next steps will be closely monitored as authorities work to uncover the full details of this developing story.