Thomas Michael Sousa II Dies After Violent Confrontation with Manteca Police in California

MANTECA, CA — A man identified as Thomas Michael Sousa II, aged 31, tragically lost his life following a violent confrontation with Manteca police officers early Wednesday morning. The incident, which has left the local community in shock, unfolded around 2:16 a.m. on South Main Street near Highway 120.(KCRA)

According to the Manteca Police Department, an officer observed a vehicle weaving erratically behind him, prompting the officer to pull over, believing the driver was attempting to flag him down. The driver, later identified as Sousa, exited his vehicle and exhibited unusual behavior. The officer maintained a safe distance and awaited backup. Subsequently, Sousa re-entered his vehicle and rammed the patrol car from behind with significant force, deploying the airbags and causing the driver’s side door to become jammed. The officer was uninjured but was taken to a nearby hospital as a precautionary measure.(CBS News, KCRA)

Following the collision, another officer arrived at the scene and located Sousa standing on a highway sign on the overpass. Attempts to communicate with him were unsuccessful, as he was reportedly speaking rapidly and incoherently. After a brief period, Sousa jumped from the overpass into the westbound lanes of Highway 120, where he was struck by an oncoming pickup truck. The driver of the truck stopped immediately and cooperated with authorities.(KCRA, penneylaw.com)

The San Joaquin County Medical Examiner’s Office later confirmed Sousa’s death at the scene. The officer involved in the initial collision was treated and released from the hospital. The California Highway Patrol is conducting an investigation into the incident, and authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the Manteca Police Department at 209-456-8101.(KCRA, penneylaw.com)

This tragic event has raised concerns about mental health and the interactions between law enforcement and individuals experiencing crises. Local residents have expressed their sorrow and called for increased awareness and training to handle such situations more effectively.