ANAHEIM, Calif. (Nov. 12, 2021) — Anaheim Police have released a video detailing a Sept. 28 officer-involved shooting that took place in neighboring Santa Ana.
The video, known as a critical incident community briefing, includes body-worn camera and helicopter footage as well as police radio communications.
A video release is standard after an officer-involved shooting or other critical incident. A warning: Police videos, including this one, contain graphic footage and are not suitable for children or those who may be sensitive.
The video details an interaction with Brandon Lopez after investigators observed him driving a vehicle that was reported stolen in Anaheim. Lopez also had outstanding warrants for armed robberies, domestic violence and driving on a suspended license.
The stolen vehicle is shown attempting to flee marked patrol cars and driving dangerously through parts of Santa Ana and Tustin.
The video also shows an ensuing standoff in Santa Ana with the Santa Ana Police Department and later the Anaheim Police Department.
After four hours of attempted negotiation, Lopez was fatally shot in an officer-involved shooting involving Anaheim Police. The video shows officers firing after Lopez displayed what was believed to be a gun and after a prior report from Santa Ana officers of him being armed.
Lopez was the cousin of Santa Ana City Council Member Johnathan Ryan Hernandez. The incident remains under review by the Anaheim Police Department, the Santa Ana Police Department and the California Department of Justice.
“Any loss of life involving our police is tragic, and our thoughts go out to the family and Council Member Hernandez,” said Mike Lyster, spokesman for the city of Anaheim.
“The video released by our police department shows this was a much more complex incident than it may have initially appeared, with real concerns for the safety of the public and a reasonable fear of a gun in the unfortunate final moments,” Lyster said.
“Where appropriate, the video is there for those interested in learning more about this incident. Beyond that, we want to let the ongoing reviews play out and respect that process for all involved.”
As an issue of interest for both Anaheim and Santa Ana, the video can be seen accessed through the link below. We again caution that it is not suitable for children or those sensitive to graphic police video footage.
Click here to see the video.