Police Delay Release of Officer-Involved Shooting Video as Investigation Continues

The Pasadena Police Department announced it will delay the public release of video footage from a March 2 officer-involved shooting, citing an ongoing investigation and the recovery of an injured officer.

According to police, at approximately 7:30 p.m., police officers responded to a 911 call in the area of the Sierra Madre Train Station.

Officers located a victim suffering from a gunshot wound and immediately rendered medical aid. While officers were assessing the scene, additional responding personnel observed an individual believed to be the suspect, and foot pursuit ensued.

During the pursuit, an exchange of gunfire occurred between the suspect and officers. Officer Bryan Vasquez sustained an injury during the incident. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The injured officer and the initial gunshot victim were transported to a local hospital for medical treatment.

Video was expected to be released under California transparency laws governing critical incidents involving law enforcement.

However, the officer involved in the shooting sustained life-threatening injuries and required extended hospitalization. Although the officer has since been discharged, officials said the officer continues to receive medical treatment and has not yet been interviewed by investigators.

Until that interview takes place, the investigation remains open, and releasing the footage would be premature, according to the department.

Under Assembly Bill 748 and Senate Bill 1421, law enforcement agencies are required to publicly release audio and video recordings of critical incidents, including officer-involved shootings, generally within 45 days. The laws are intended to promote transparency and accountability.

However, the statute allows agencies to delay the release if doing so would substantially interfere with an active criminal investigation.

According to Thursday’s statement, the case remains under active review, with investigators continuing to examine video evidence, witness statements and forensic findings.

The Pasadena Police Department said it is exercising that authority, temporarily withholding the video under Government Code section 7923.625(a)(2) until investigators determine that its release will not compromise the case.

According to that code, “After 45 days from the date the agency knew or reasonably should have known about the incident, and up to one year from that date, the agency may continue to delay disclosure of a recording if the agency demonstrates that disclosure would substantially interfere with the investigation.”

In a statement released on Thursday, Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris said the Pasadena Police Department remains committed to transparency and understands the community’s interest in reviewing the available footage.

“However, the release of the video must be carefully coordinated with the ongoing investigation and reviewed in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.”

The department will provide an update on the video’s release once it determines it is appropriate to do so.