Bakersfield, Calif. (KERO) – In a recent development, the Bakersfield Police Department has released video footage of an officer-involved shooting that took place on January 18th, 2024. The video, captured from various body cameras present at the scene or en route to the location, sheds light on the events leading up to the tragic incident.
The incident unfolded at 2:24 am on January 18th at the intersection of Chester Ave and 13th Streets in Bakersfield. The initial call to authorities came from a ShotSpotter activation, prompting a swift response from the Bakersfield Police Department. Upon arrival, officers encountered the suspect, identified as Esmeraldo Martinez Vivanco, who was armed inside a vehicle.
Tragically, Vivanco succumbed to his injuries at the scene, with no other reported injuries as per the BPD. Further investigation led to the recovery of a rifle and shell casings from Vivanco’s vehicle, adding a layer of complexity to the unfolding situation.
In a statement released by the Bakersfield Police Department, Chief of Police Greg Terry emphasised the importance of transparency and accountability in such critical incidents. “The public has a legitimate interest in obtaining timely and accurate information about police shootings, and the Bakersfield Police Department is committed to making that information available,” Chief Terry stated. “We will release the body-worn camera footage of officers involved in critical incidents as soon as possible, ensuring transparency and professionalism in our operations.”
The release also identified the officers involved in the shooting as Officer Ward, Officer Maduena, Officer Garcia, Officer Flores, Officer Baker, Senior Officer Jordan, and Sergeant Cason. Each officer’s length of service with the Bakersfield Police Department was also detailed, ranging from one year to sixteen years of experience.
The location of the incident, at the junction of Chester Ave and 13th Streets, is a bustling area in Bakersfield with a mix of commercial and residential properties. The neighbourhood is known for its vibrant community and active nightlife, making the events of that fateful night even more shocking to local residents.
As investigations into the officer-involved shooting continue, the Bakersfield Police Department remains committed to providing updates and ensuring transparency in their operations. The release of the body camera footage marks a significant step towards accountability and public trust in law enforcement practices..
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