Harris said video footage shows one officer driving toward several officers standing near a patrol vehicle inside the department’s parking structure before one of the standing officers drew his firearm and pointed it at the approaching officer. After the weapon was reholstered, the officer seated in the vehicle drew his own firearm and pointed it toward the standing officer. The gun discharged, firing a round through the vehicle’s windshield and into the standing officer’s left shoulder. The officer later recovered from his injuries.
The video was made public between 4:10 p.m. and 5:20 p.m. on Wednesday. The shooting occurred at approximately 6:18 p.m. on Sept. 7, in the Pasadena Police Department parking structure at 240 Ramona St. as patrol officers were loading their vehicles and preparing to begin their shifts.
The video was released months after the incident because Harris exercised his authority under California law to delay public disclosure while investigators completed critical portions of the investigation. Harris said the delay was necessary because one of the officers involved sustained serious injuries and required medical treatment.
Under California law, law enforcement agencies are generally required to publicly release audio and video recordings of officer-involved shootings and other critical incidents within 45 days. Harris said the delay was intended to protect the integrity of the investigation and allow investigators to complete essential investigative steps.
The incident remains under review. Detectives from the Pasadena Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Unit and Critical Incident Review Unit, along with investigators from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, continue to examine camera footage, witness statements, forensic evidence and other investigative materials.
While criminal and force reviews remain pending, Harris said the department has completed its administrative investigation and imposed disciplinary measures.
“Horseplay and/or failure to adhere to safety rules and standards of professional conduct will not be tolerated,” Harris said in the video. “This regretful conduct is not consistent with the expectations and service commitments of this department and appropriate actions will be taken to ensure our culture reflects appropriate conduct, values, and service to this community.”
Harris said the department remains committed to transparency and accountability as the investigation continues.
Pasadena Now will update this story with footage of the incident.
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