Baldwin Park Police Officer Killed, Another Critically Injured, and Civilian Dead in Fiery Gun Battle at Filhurst Avenue Residence

Baldwin Park, CA – May 31, 2025

A harrowing tragedy unfolded in the Los Angeles County city of Baldwin Park on Saturday evening, where a police response to a shooting call on Filhurst Avenue quickly escalated into a violent ambush, claiming the life of one police officer, severely injuring another, and revealing the body of a second civilian gunshot victim inside the residence.

At 7:12 p.m., Baldwin Park police officers responded to a report of gunfire and a man down at a home in the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue. Within seconds of their arrival, the scene erupted into chaos. As one officer stepped out of the patrol car, gunfire erupted from within the home—delivered by a suspect armed with a high-powered rifle. The officer was immediately struck by bullets in what officials are now calling an “ambush-style” attack. A second officer attempted to return fire and was also hit but managed to survive the initial volley.

Despite immediate efforts by fellow officers and emergency responders, one officer succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving at a nearby hospital. His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin, as is the name of the wounded officer, who remains in critical but stable condition. The names of both officers are expected to be released by the Baldwin Park Police Department in the coming days.

Upon securing the area, law enforcement entered the home and discovered the lifeless body of another adult male inside. He had suffered fatal gunshot wounds prior to the officers’ arrival. Authorities have not yet publicly identified this second victim but confirmed he was known to the suspect.

The shooter—described as an adult male—was also wounded during the exchange. He was taken into custody and transported to a local hospital, where he remains under guard in stable condition. Investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau have taken over the investigation.

Timeline of Events:

• 7:12 PM: Officers arrive in response to 911 call about shots fired and a man down.
• 7:13 PM: Gunfire erupts as one officer steps out of the patrol car; he is hit immediately.
• 7:15 PM: Additional officers return fire, extract wounded officers, and call for backup.
• 7:25 PM: The home is surrounded and cleared; suspect is taken into custody wounded.
• 8:00 PM: Medical personnel pronounce one officer deceased; second remains hospitalized.
• Later that evening: A deceased civilian is discovered inside the home.

Community Impact:

The Baldwin Park community was left reeling. The neighborhood near Filhurst Avenue remained cordoned off into Sunday morning as forensics teams combed through the scene. Residents described the incident as a “war zone,” with over a dozen rounds heard and people taking cover behind cars and walls.

A growing memorial outside Baldwin Park Police Department now holds candles, flowers, and handwritten notes expressing heartbreak and support for the officers and their families. A city-wide vigil is planned for Monday night in front of City Hall.

Statements from Officials:

Police Chief Robert A. López fought back tears as he addressed the press late Saturday night.

“One of our officers was murdered tonight. He died protecting the people of this city. He was an exemplary officer—dedicated, kind, and courageous. There are no words for this kind of loss. He is a hero.”

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna echoed the sentiment, calling it a “cowardly attack” and pledging the full support of the sheriff’s department in bringing justice to the victims.

“This is an unspeakable tragedy, not just for Baldwin Park but for all law enforcement and all of Los Angeles County. We will ensure this suspect is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement Sunday morning:

“California mourns the loss of another brave officer in the line of duty. Our thoughts are with the families of all those affected. We will not rest until we confront the gun violence that continues to claim lives—including the lives of those sworn to protect us.”

Legal and Investigative Developments:

The suspect, once medically cleared, is expected to be booked on multiple felony counts including murder of a peace officer, attempted murder, and unlawful possession and discharge of a firearm. Investigators are examining the suspect’s background, including his mental health history, prior arrests, and any possible connections to the second deceased man inside the residence.

Ballistics testing is underway on the rifle used in the ambush. Officials believe it may have been illegally modified or obtained. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) has joined the investigation.

Additionally, body camera footage from the responding officers will play a crucial role in determining exactly how the ambush unfolded, and whether there were any tactical or procedural issues to review.

Law Enforcement Community Responds:

Police departments across California have responded with messages of solidarity. Blue ribbons adorn Baldwin Park police vehicles, and officers from El Monte, West Covina, and the Los Angeles Police Department have volunteered to provide coverage for Baldwin Park officers taking time off to grieve.

Sheriff Luna said he expects the funeral for the slain officer will draw attendance from departments across the country.

Public Safety and Trust:

In the wake of the shooting, Baldwin Park city officials emphasized the need for community healing and unity. Counseling and trauma support services are being offered to officers, victims’ families, and nearby residents.

Mayor Emmanuel Estrada said during a press conference:

“This city has lost one of its protectors and one of its citizens in a senseless act of violence. We stand united in our grief and in our determination to honor them by supporting their families and demanding accountability.”

Conclusion:

This incident, now under intense scrutiny and investigation, stands as a painful reminder of the danger officers face every day. It also deepens the conversation about mental health, gun violence, and the strain on public safety systems.

The Baldwin Park Police Department and the families of the victims are asking for privacy and support in the coming days as funeral arrangements are made and the investigation continues.

As of now, the names of the fallen officer and the second deceased civilian have not been publicly released. Once those details are confirmed by authorities, they will be added to this developing story.