by Walnut Creek, California — A 46-year-old man was fatally shot by police early Thursday morning after officers responded to reports of a suspicious person looking into homes and vehicles in a residential neighborhood.
The shooting occurred near Alvarado and Buena Vista avenues, close to Buena Vista Elementary School. Walnut Creek Police said in an early statement that the scene was secure and there was no ongoing threat to the public.
By 7 a.m., the Contra Costa County coroner had arrived and later removed a body from the scene, confirming the shooting was fatal.
Report of Man With Flashlight Leads to Confrontation
According to police, officers were dispatched around 12:10 a.m. after a caller reported a man dressed in dark clothing using a flashlight to look into homes and parked cars.
When officers arrived, they encountered a man matching the description who was holding what appeared to be a firearm.
Police later determined the object was a pellet gun that “closely resembled” a handgun.
Officers reportedly issued multiple commands for the man to drop the weapon. Authorities said he did not comply, and a shooting occurred.
Following the gunfire, officers performed life-saving measures until paramedics arrived. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.
No officers were injured.
Mother Identifies Son, Speaks Out
Police have not publicly released the man’s name, citing the ongoing investigation. However, his mother, Annie, identified him as Anthony, telling reporters that her son had struggled for years with schizophrenia.
“I have spent so many years advocating to prevent something like this, and it happens to my own son,” she said.
According to his mother, Anthony had previously volunteered in the community and was working to stabilize his life. However, she said he stopped taking his medication last October due to difficult side effects.
She expressed concern that her son had previously talked about the possibility of “suicide by cop.”
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“It was almost like the ultimate solution to calming the voices that are in his head that he cannot control,” Annie said.
She added that she does not blame police but believes there need to be more options and resources available for individuals battling severe mental illness.
Investigation Underway
As is standard procedure, the officers involved have been placed on administrative leave.
In addition to the department’s internal review, the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office is conducting a parallel investigation under the Law Enforcement Involved Fatal Incident Protocol.
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Walnut Creek police at 925-943-5844 or submit an anonymous tip at 925-943-5865.
The case has renewed discussions about law enforcement response and mental health crises in communities across California.
What are your thoughts on how communities should handle mental health emergencies? Share your perspective respectfully in the comments below.
