DEPUTY INVOLVED SHOOTING IN VALLEY CENTER ENDS IN ARREST OF SUSPECT

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March 18, 2012 (Valley Center) – Valley Center Area Investigators were called to Harrah’s Rincon Casino on the afternoon of March 15 for a report of a stolen vehicle in the parking lot.  As investigators were watching the vehicle, a subject, later identified as Joe Hernandez (07/10/86), approached and entered the vehicle.  Investigators attempted to detain Hernandez, who failed to comply with orders and attempted to flee in the vehicle.

While fleeing, Hernandez struck one of the investigators with the vehicle resulting in the other investigators firing several shots at him.  Hernandez then fled on foot and was apprehended a short time later where he was hiding nearby.  Hernandez was not struck by the shots and the investigator sustained minor injuries. 

Hernandez was booked into the Vista Detention Facility for attempted murder and other assault and theft related charges.  San Marcos Area Investigators will be handling the follow-up investigation.

 


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