Update: An armed suspect opened fire on Tulare County Sheriff’s deputies who were serving an eviction notice in Porterville, California, on Thursday morning, triggering a major law enforcement response.
According to Visalia Times Delta, the shooting occurred near Newcomb Street and Grand Avenue. This prompted authorities to lock down the surrounding neighborhood. Roads were blocked off, and residents were urged to stay clear of the 1700 block of West Brian Avenue as the situation unfolded.
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Witnesses described the suspect as a man wearing camouflage and armed with a rifle. He remained at large as of late morning.
Law enforcement agencies launched an extensive search operation, deploying a drone and calling in SWAT units, along with a BearCat armored vehicle, to assist in locating the suspect.
As a precaution, three nearby schools, Westfield, Sequoia, and Monache, were placed on lockdown.
Authorities said the situation remained active, with efforts ongoing to secure the area and catch the suspect.
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Initial report: A police officer was reportedly shot Thursday in Porterville, California, with an armed suspect still believed to be at large in Tulare County. Early reports from Scanner Radio indicated a significant law enforcement response to the incident.
{{/usCountry}}Initial report: A police officer was reportedly shot Thursday in Porterville, California, with an armed suspect still believed to be at large in Tulare County. Early reports from Scanner Radio indicated a significant law enforcement response to the incident.
{{/usCountry}}Videos shared on social media show a large police and emergency vehicle presence at the scene.
There are unverified social media reports and witness accounts claiming that multiple schools were placed on lockdown following the shooting. However, there are currently no confirmed reports of active shootings at any schools connected to this incident.
As of now, official statements from law enforcement have not been released, and details regarding the motive or suspect description remain scarce.