Below is a summary of the events known to us at this time. The investigation into this incident is in the preliminary stages, and details may change as information becomes available.

On Friday, May 2, 2025, just after 11:50 a.m., Sacramento Police Department patrol officers were dispatched to a report of a domestic violence incident involving a weapon. The caller reported that the suspect threw a knife at him, attempted to molest him, and stole his property. Additionally, the caller reported that the suspect had the caller’s BB gun. The caller identified the suspect as Johnny Balcorta who had a warrant. Responding officers were able to identify the suspect as 37-year-old Johnny Balcorta of Sacramento. Officers confirmed that Balcorta had a felony no-bail warrant for his arrest.

Officers arrived on scene around 12:00 p.m. and located Balcorta, who fled on foot from officers with what appeared to be a firearm in his hand. Officers pursued Balcorta, but lost sight of him near the waterline near Matsui Park. Additional officers responded and a large perimeter was established. Resources from allied agencies were requested and responded to assist. 

Shortly after 1:00 p.m., officers located Balcorta and gave him multiple commands to surrender. A police K-9 was used to help apprehend Balcorta and an officer-involved shooting occurred. Two officers fired their handguns, striking Balcorta at least one time. Sacramento Police Officers quickly rendered emergency medical aid to Balcorta. The California Highway Patrol’s helicopter was overhead, which had a paramedic-trained officer on board. That helicopter landed nearby, and the paramedic-trained officer also assisted with medical aid.

Officers recovered what were later determined to be two imitation firearms on scene (pictured below). No officers were injured during the encounter.

Balcorta sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to an area hospital by the Sacramento Fire Department, where he remains in stable condition. Balcorta will be booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail once he is medically cleared.

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. That 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, all pertinent video and audio associated with this incident will be released to the public within 30 days.

The Sacramento Police Department encourages any witnesses with information regarding this investigation 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 of up to $1,000.  Anonymous tips can also be submitted using the free “P3 Tips” smartphone app.