Erick Berrios Death News – Authorities have released the identity of an armed robbery suspect who was killed during a shootout that also left a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputy wounded in Lancaster. The announcement came Monday, as the investigation into the violent encounter continues.
The incident began Saturday evening, following a report of an armed robbery. According to the LASD, deputies responded to a call for service around 7:20 p.m. in the 1200 block of Meadow View Circle, located near West Avenue K and 12th Street West.
Upon arriving at the scene, deputies encountered a man suspected of committing the robbery. A shootout soon broke out between at least one deputy and the suspect. During the exchange of gunfire, the suspect was fatally wounded and pronounced dead at the scene.
The fallen suspect was later identified by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office as 31-year-old Erick Berrios.
The confrontation also resulted in injuries to one LASD deputy. The injured deputy was transported to Antelope Valley Hospital, where he underwent surgery. As of Monday, the department reported that the deputy remained hospitalized but was listed in stable condition.
Law enforcement officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances that led to the shootout. It remains unclear exactly what transpired in the moments leading up to the gunfire exchange or whether the suspect acted alone.
The LASD’s Homicide Bureau is overseeing the investigation and has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Those who may be able to assist the inquiry are encouraged to contact the bureau at 323-890-5500.
The shootout has raised concerns within the Lancaster community and the broader Los Angeles area, highlighting the ongoing risks faced by law enforcement officers during potentially volatile situations such as robbery responses. It also underscores the dangers that can arise when suspects are armed and willing to engage in violent confrontations with police.
Officials have not provided additional details about the initial robbery that prompted the call for service. Investigators are expected to review evidence from the scene, including any available surveillance footage and witness accounts, to reconstruct the sequence of events.
As with all officer-involved shootings, the incident will be subject to a thorough review to ensure all actions taken by law enforcement were in line with departmental policies and legal guidelines. The internal review will run parallel to the ongoing criminal investigation.
Community members and local leaders have expressed relief that the injured deputy is recovering and have voiced support for law enforcement personnel who routinely place themselves in harm’s way.
Further updates on the investigation are anticipated as more information becomes available. For now, the LASD continues to urge the public to assist in the case by providing any details that may help clarify what occurred during Saturday’s deadly confrontation in Lancaster.