by Dinuba Police Officer Shot While Responding to Disturbance, Suspect in Critical Condition
A Dinuba police officer is recovering at home after being shot during a response to a disturbance on Thursday night. The incident took place at a residence located in the 100 block of South I Street in Dinuba, a city in Tulare County, California.
According to Dinuba Police Chief Abel Iriarte, officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of an armed individual causing a disturbance. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Luis Manuel Piceno, allegedly displayed a firearm and opened fire at the officers after they issued verbal commands.
During the exchange of gunfire, one of the officers was struck by a bullet. The wounded officer, who has 20 years of experience in law enforcement, was immediately transported to a local hospital. Fortunately, Chief Iriarte stated that the officer is expected to make a full recovery.
On the other hand, Piceno was also injured and remains hospitalized in critical condition. The officers involved in the incident have been placed on paid administrative leave, which is standard procedure during an investigation of this nature.
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office has taken over the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. They will examine the circumstances leading up to the incident and determine whether the use of force was justified.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation. Witnesses or individuals with relevant details can contact the police at 559-591-5911. For those who wish to remain anonymous, a dedicated hotline at 559-591-8471 is available for confidential tips.
The Dinuba community is coming together to support the injured officer and his colleagues during this challenging time. The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers that law enforcement officers face daily while protecting and serving their communities.
