Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy Fatally Ambushed in Palmdale
In a tragic incident that has left the community and law enforcement agencies reeling, a 30-year-old Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy, Ryan Clinkunbroomer, was fatally shot in what authorities are describing as an ambush. The shooting occurred on Saturday night near the Palmdale Sheriff's Station, and as of Sunday, the perpetrator remains at large.
Clinkunbroomer, an eight-year veteran of the department, was found unconscious in his patrol vehicle by a good Samaritan. He was immediately rushed to Antelope Valley Medical Center in Lancaster, where he succumbed to his injuries. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday outside the Palmdale sheriff's station to honor the fallen deputy.
Sheriff Robert Luna expressed his outrage and grief at a press conference, describing the suspect or suspects as "cowards." He emphasized that the deputy was "murdered while serving our community" without any warning or apparent motive. Luna labeled the act as "absolutely unacceptable" and urged the public to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Authorities are offering a total reward of $250,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the suspect(s). The city of Palmdale and Los Angeles County are each contributing $100,000, with the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs adding another $50,000 to the reward pool.
Investigators have identified a "vehicle of interest" that was seen near the deputy's patrol vehicle around the time of the shooting. The car is described as a dark-gray Toyota Corolla, model years 2006-2012. Surveillance footage suggests that this vehicle pulled up to Clinkunbroomer's patrol car when it was stopped at a light before speeding away. Sheriff Luna has called on anyone who was in the area of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q around 6 p.m. on Saturday to review any camera footage they may have, such as dashcam videos, that could provide additional clues.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear. Authorities are exploring all possibilities, including whether the attack was personal, related to Clinkunbroomer's job, or a random act of violence. Luna stated that "nothing is off the table" and that the investigation is still in its early stages.
Clinkunbroomer had been with the Palmdale station since July 2018 and had served as a field training officer for the past year and a half. "Not just anybody becomes a field training officer; it's usually the best of the best," Luna said. He also revealed that Clinkunbroomer came from a law enforcement family, with both his grandfather and father having served in the L.A. sheriff's department. "Service was running through his veins," Luna added, describing the deputy's commitment to justice as "absolute."
The deputy had recently celebrated his engagement, adding another layer of tragedy to his untimely death. "He was just starting his life," Luna lamented.
Elected officials, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and L.A. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, have expressed their condolences and called for swift justice. Newsom described the deputy's death as a "horrific, unconscionable, and shocking loss," while Hahn pledged all county resources needed to find the murderer.
The incident has triggered a massive manhunt, with numerous local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies offering their assistance. Sheriff Luna emphasized the urgency of public involvement, stating, "Somebody knows something." He urged anyone with information to contact LASD Homicide at 323-890-5500 immediately.
As the search for the suspect or suspects intensifies, the community remains on high alert, united in grief and determination to bring the perpetrator(s) to justice.
