On August 15, 2023 at approximately 5:08 p.m., Sacramento Police Department patrol officers responded to multiple callers reporting a person armed with a machete or large knife on a Sacramento Light Rail Train. The train had stopped near the 3800 block of 24th Street. When officers arrived, they removed one passenger from the train and tried to talk with the male, who was armed with a large knife. Officers attempted to deescalate the situation for several minutes. Less lethal munitions were used, however they were ineffective. While still armed with the knife, the suspect charged at officers and an officer involved shooting occurred.

Officers disarmed the suspect and rendered medical aid until relieved by Sacramento Fire Department personnel. Despite these efforts, the male was pronounced deceased on scene.

This investigation is in the preliminary stages and details may change as information becomes available.

The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the deceased after the next of kin have been notified. This incident is being investigated by the Sacramento Police Department's Homicide Unit, Internal Affairs Division, and Professional Standards Unit. An investigation into the incident will also be conducted by the Force Investigation Team. The investigation will focus on policy, tactics, and training as it relates to the use of force. The Office of Public Safety Accountability and the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office are providing oversight by monitoring the investigation.

This incident falls under the City Council’s policy on Police Use of Force as well as SB 1421. As a result, the video and audio associated with this incident will be released to the public within 30 days. Detectives are in the process of identifying and retrieving video associated with this incident.

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information regarding this incident to contact the dispatch center at (916) 808-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at (916) 443-HELP (4357). Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward up to $1,000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free “P3 Tips” smartphone app.

Knife recovered on scene