The Baldwin Park community is mourning the loss of one of its dedicated public servants following a tragic incident on Saturday evening. Officer Samuel Riveros, 35, was identified as the police officer killed in the line of duty during a violent confrontation with an armed suspect. The announcement was made by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, who is leading the investigation into the incident.
According to officials, the fatal incident occurred around 7:12 p.m. on Saturday, when Baldwin Park Police officers responded to multiple 9-1-1 calls reporting an armed individual near the intersection of Palm Avenue and Filhurst Street. Some of those emergency calls also described a person lying unresponsive at the scene, prompting a swift response from officers.
Upon arrival, officers were immediately met with gunfire from a male suspect, turning the scene into a dangerous and chaotic exchange. Officer Samuel Riveros, responding to the call, was struck during the confrontation and sustained critical injuries. Despite the efforts of fellow officers and emergency medical personnel, Riveros was later pronounced dead.
The suspect involved in the shooting was also struck by gunfire during the exchange. He was quickly taken into custody and transported to a local hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition. Authorities have not yet released his name or any details regarding his background or potential motive.
Additionally, officers discovered another individual at the scene—an adult male civilian—who had sustained apparent gunshot wounds. Tragically, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not been released pending notification of next of kin.
Officer Samuel Riveros had served the Baldwin Park Police Department with distinction. Known for his professionalism, courage, and strong sense of community duty, he was a respected colleague and a valued member of the department. Riveros’s passing has left his fellow officers devastated and the wider Baldwin Park community in shock.
“Officer Riveros died doing what he was sworn to do—protecting our community,” said Baldwin Park Police Chief Ernest M. Esquivel in a statement. “His bravery in the face of danger and his commitment to public service will never be forgotten. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and colleagues during this heartbreaking time.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau is overseeing the investigation into the shooting, working to determine the sequence of events that led to the deadly exchange and whether the initial 9-1-1 reports may have involved multiple victims or incidents.
Community leaders and officials have already begun expressing their condolences and support. Local residents have started placing flowers and candles outside the Baldwin Park Police Department in remembrance of Officer Riveros. Plans are underway for a public memorial service, and the department has also established a fund to support Riveros’s family during this time of profound grief.
In the days ahead, Baldwin Park will continue to reel from this loss, but the memory of Officer Samuel Riveros—his selflessness, commitment, and sacrifice—will undoubtedly endure. His life is a reminder of the daily risks law enforcement officers face and the courage it takes to serve.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is asked to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau as the investigation continues.
