Suspect Shot, Killed After Pulling Gun During I-5 Traffic Stop

Officer-involved shooting under investigation in Weed, California

WEED, Calif. — A suspect was shot and killed Saturday after allegedly pulling a firearm on officers during a traffic stop along Interstate 5 in Weed, according to local law enforcement officials.

The incident began March 21 when a Weed Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling northbound on Interstate 5 near the north Weed off-ramp. Authorities said the stop was initiated for multiple vehicle code violations, including excessive window tint and an unsafe lane change.

During the stop, the officer requested assistance for a K-9 drug sniff. An officer from the Mt. Shasta Police Department responded to assist. While searching the vehicle, officers reportedly located a substantial amount of suspected methamphetamine concealed inside a stereo speaker box.

Officials said that as officers approached the suspect — who was seated in front of the patrol vehicle — the individual produced a firearm from his waist area and pointed it toward the officer. An officer-involved shooting followed.

The suspect was struck by gunfire, and medical aid was provided at the scene. The individual was transported to Dignity Health Mt. Shasta, where he later died from his injuries.

One officer sustained minor injuries after falling during the incident, authorities said.

The California Highway Patrol Northern Division Major Accident Investigation Team is leading the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Both involved officers have been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal affairs investigation, in accordance with department policy.

The suspect’s name has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Siskiyou County Coroner’s Office.

Officials say additional information will be released as it becomes available.

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