A suspect has been apprehended in relation to the shooting of Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy, Samuel Aispuro, who was targeted in an apparent “ambush” while on duty. The incident occurred on Monday at approximately 2:45 p.m. at the intersection of Barranca Street and East Garvey Avenue in West Covina. Deputy Aispuro, 43, was shot once in the back while riding his department motorcycle.
Following the attack, Aispuro managed to radio for assistance, prompting an extensive manhunt. He was subsequently transported to a hospital and is currently in stable condition. The identity of the suspect has not been disclosed, and their alleged involvement in the shooting remains unclear. Sheriff Robert Luna is expected to provide further details during a scheduled news conference later today.
Sheriff Luna commended Aispuro’s use of a bulletproof vest, which undoubtedly saved his life. Expressing his dismay, Luna questioned the motives of someone who would shoot another person in the back, labeling such an act as the “worst of the worst.” Authorities are actively searching for additional suspects believed to have been traveling in a white vehicle with tinted windows. The vehicle was last seen heading westbound on the 10 Freeway from Barranca.
Luna emphasized the danger posed by an armed individual who targeted one of their deputies, stating that if the suspect was willing to shoot a law enforcement officer, they would likely pose a threat to anyone else. Aispuro, a dedicated deputy with 19½ years of service, promptly issued an emergency broadcast that led to an initial search for the white vehicle, according to Luna. The search led authorities to a residence in La Puente, where several individuals were detained but later released without charges.
Deputy Aispuro, a married father of two, is assigned to the Century station in Lynwood and was in West Covina for training purposes, as confirmed by L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn. Hahn expressed gratitude that the incident did not result in more severe consequences and acknowledged the daily risks faced by law enforcement officers in their efforts to safeguard communities. She pledged her support to Sheriff Luna and his deputies as they work towards bringing the responsible person to justice.
