CONTACT: Brian Amoroso, Deputy Chief
DATE OF INCIDENT: Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 4:46 PM
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Officer Involved Shooting
PLACE OF OCCURRENCE: Intersection of Poinsettia Street and Bluebell Way, San Luis Obispo
On Saturday, February 28, 2026, at around 4:46 pm, the San Luis Obispo Police Department received several 911 calls reporting a male in the 900 block of El Capitan Way who was shouting aggressively and waving a firearm.
Responding officers located the male subject near the intersection of Poinsettia Street and Bluebell Way who was actively yelling and holding what appeared to be a handgun. An officer confronting the threat discharged their weapon, striking the subject one time. Despite life-saving efforts, the male was declared deceased at the scene. His identity will be provided pending next of kin notifications. No officers or other community members were injured during the incident.
Initial investigation following the shooting revealed that the firearm was a replica. Per state law and department policy, investigations involving simulated firearms are conducted by the California Department of Justice. We will cooperate fully with the investigation and body-worn camera footage will be released in the future in accordance with Assembly Bill 748.
Any loss of life is tragic. The San Luis Obispo Police Department acknowledges and is saddened by the impact of this incident on those involved, their families, our employees, and our community.
The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave consistent with department policy. This is an ongoing investigation. We are committed to keeping the community informed and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
