MONTEREY COUNTY — Monterey County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency made a surprise visit to the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office last week, recognizing local deputies for their pivotal role in managing a mass casualty incident on March 3 in King City.
The tragic shooting occurred during a birthday celebration that evening in the front yard of a residence on the 200 block of Second Street, where friends and family had gathered for the occasion. Three gunmen opened fire, leaving four dead and seven injured.
The incident sent shockwaves through the community as law enforcement scrambled to respond.
Following an extensive investigation involving nearly 30 local, state and federal agencies, all three gunmen were arrested in May for the shooting and other crimes, including the double homicide near Soledad on Feb. 4 that resulted in the deaths of two cousins.
During the Sept. 19 visit, Sheriff Tina Nieto was presented with a commemorative plaque, celebrating the tireless efforts of the deputies who worked in collaboration with law enforcement agencies from King City, Greenfield, Soledad and Gonzales. The deputies secured the scene and provided crucial support to first responders, who were treating multiple victims.
The coordination among various agencies was vital, with first responders from American Medical Response (AMR), CALSTAR, the County of Monterey Emergency Communications Department, Fort Hunter Liggett Fire Department, King City Fire Department, South Monterey County Fire Protection District, and medical facilities Natividad and Mee Memorial Hospital working together to deliver life-saving services.
In a letter of commendation from the EMS Agency, officials praised the response efforts.
“The coordination and response to this mass casualty incident represents a stellar example of how an EMS System should work,” they stated. “The EMS Agency commends the organizations and individuals who demonstrated excellence in meeting the many demands of this challenging incident, providing life-saving EMS service to the injured. Your efforts are worth the highest level of gratitude and recognition.”
Sheriff Nieto expressed her gratitude during the presentation, acknowledging the dedication of her deputies.
“Thank you to our deputies, detectives and all of those involved for serving our community and handling these difficult situations with exceptional care and skill,” she said.
