A homicide suspect was shot and killed by Santa Ana police officers near the Newport Beach Pier on Saturday morning following an attack in Riverside County and a high-speed chase through Orange County.
The incident began around 3 a.m. in Menifee, Riverside County, when officers responded to reports of gunfire at a home on Mesa Edge Court.
Upon arrival, they discovered the body of 38-year-old Storm Wolf of Temecula. Investigators quickly identified 45-year-old Jose Velasquez as the suspect and suspected he had fled to Santa Ana, nearly 60 miles away. Menifee Police then contacted Santa Ana authorities for assistance.
Video posted on social media showed a grey SUV speeding down the pier, which was crowded with pedestrians. Several police squad cars followed, and more than a dozen gunshots could be heard.
Santa Ana officers located Velasquez inside a vehicle on N. Freeman Street and attempted to stop him, but he fled. A police chase ensued, ending at the Newport Beach Pier around 7 a.m. Details of the final confrontation remain unclear, but officers ultimately opened fire, fatally shooting Velasquez. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The shooting took place in front of multiple bystanders on the pier, which was temporarily closed but has since reopened. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
Newport Beach is known for its conservative governance, which has prioritized fiscal responsibility, public safety, and a strong commitment to individual freedoms.