California DOJ investigating shooting by sheriff's deputies that killed Alpine man

The California Department of Justice is taking over the investigation into the death of an Alpine senior at the hands of San Diego County sheriff’s deputies, state Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Thursday.

A man in his 70s was shot and killed after deputies arrived at his home for a welfare check. It happened around 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in the 1700 block of Krysten Terrace, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

The next-door neighbor, who wished not to be identified, said a member of the homeowners association was delivering meeting announcements door to door and was the one who called for a welfare check.

“The door was slightly opened, not closed, and she was worried something was wrong,” the neighbor said.

When deputies arrived, they were confronted by the homeowner, who pointed a gun at them, according to the sheriff’s department. The responding deputies shot the man. On closer examination, investigators say he had a replica weapon.

No deputies were injured, officials said.

Neighbors say the deceased man lived alone for the last eight years but kept to himself.

“All I know is he lived there, came and went to work,” neighbor Ron Brooks said. “He was pretty friendly with my mom. She would always check on him.”

SDSO says it will be releasing body worn camera footage and a critical incident video in the coming days with details of the shooting.

A 2020 state law, Assembly Bill 1506, requires the California DOJ to investigate law enforcement shootings resulting in the deaths of unarmed people in the state.

The AG’s office said following the investigation, it will be turned over to special prosecutors for independent review.

Anyone with information was asked to call (916) 210-2871.