Pasadena Police Mourn On-Duty Shooting Death of Baldwin Park Police Officer With Local Ties

Baldwin Park Police Officer Samuel Riveros, a former Pasadena parking enforcement officer and Pasadena City College student, was shot and killed Saturday while responding to reports of an armed suspect.

Riveros, 35, died during a shootout with a gunman on the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue at approximately 7:12 p.m., according to authorities. The nine-year police veteran was transported to Los Angeles County-USC Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.

The Pasadena Police Department issued a statement Sunday expressing solidarity with Baldwin Park police. “As you grieve the heartbreaking loss of one of your own, please know that we mourn with you,” the department posted on social media. “Our hearts are heavy, and we stand beside you. End of Watch: 5/31/25.”

Riveros worked as a Pasadena parking enforcement officer for Inter-Con Security Systems from October 2012 to September 2013. He earned an Associate of Science degree in Administration of Justice from Pasadena City College from 2008 to 2012.

Another officer, Anthony Pimentel, was shot during the incident but survived and was later released from the hospital. A civilian man was found dead at the scene with a fatal gunshot wound. Authorities believe the suspect was involved in that killing as well.

The suspect was shot during the exchange and is in stable condition in custody.

Baldwin Park Police Chief Robert Lopez described Riveros as “an amazing man” during a midnight news conference. “He answered a call of duty of shots fired to protect our residents in Baldwin Park,” Lopez said. “He and his other officer responded and as is customary with any police officer, or any sheriff’s deputy, they always respond and go into the fire.”

Lopez said Riveros was an avid snowboarder and Dodgers fan who had watched the team play at stadiums across the country.

Riveros began his career with the Baldwin Park Police Department in 2016. He also attended the University of California, Irvine, studying criminology, law and society from 2013 to 2015.

Gov. Gavin Newsom and Acting Gov. Eleni Kounalakis issued a joint statement mourning “the tragic loss of one of California’s brave law enforcement officers.” They extended condolences to Riveros’ family, loved ones and colleagues.

Assemblywoman Blanca Rubio, D-West Covina, thanked Riveros for his service. “The sacrifices these officers make to keep us safe is unbelievable,” she said.

Riveros is survived by his mother and sister.