SOLEDAD — In the early morning hours of Dec. 16, Monterey County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) deputies were dispatched to a report of a suspicious vehicle driving through a residential area along the 32000 block of McCoy Road in Soledad.
The vehicle was reported to be playing loud music, and deputies were advised the driver may be in possession of a firearm.
When the first deputy arrived, the deputy located the vehicle and encountered a subject who was armed with a rifle. During this encounter, the deputy “discharged their service weapon, striking the suspect,” according to MCSO.
First aid was immediately provided at the scene, officials said, and the suspect was transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. The deputy was not injured during the incident.
“Any time force is used, it is a serious matter. Our focus remains on the safety of the community, the individuals involved, and our deputies. This incident is now under independent review by the District Attorney’s Office,” stated Monterey County Sheriff Tina Nieto. “We will continue to cooperate fully while respecting the integrity of the investigation.”
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Unit and Internal Affairs investigators also responded to assist.
Video evidence related to the incident was obtained and has been provided to the District Attorney’s Office as part of the investigation.
“Due to the ongoing investigation, no additional details are available at this time,” stated MCSO.
