Contra Costa Herald

News Of By and For The People of Contra Costa County, California

68 arrests, five for DUI in Pleasant Hill in August

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Source: Pleasant Hill PD

By Pleasant Hill Police Department

Good evening Pleasant Hill! We’re sorry about the delay, but the Pleasant Hill Police Department is back with a snapshot of our monthly crime stats, giving you a look at some of the police activity that took place in our city in August 2026.

Of the 68 arrests, 68% were misdemeanors, 32% were felonies, 100% were adults and five were for DUI. In addition, 144 citations were issued of which 43% were hazardous cites, and 57% were non-hazardous.

Other incidents included 10 Injury traffic accidents, 10 Non-injury traffic accidents and five Handicap violations.

Source: Pleasant Hill PD

Of the 1,936 calls for service in August, bringing the total to 18,373 total incidents / calls for service for 2026, a 10.8% increase compared to the same time last year, there were 92 Property Crimes and three Person Crimes. Of the Property Crimes, 78 were larcenies which include shoplifting, theft from a car, bike theft, purse snatching, etc., 10 were auto thefts, three were residential burglaries and there was one business burglary. Of the three Person Crimes, one was for aggravated assault, one rape and one robbery.

We’ll continue sharing this information monthly on social media, but for a more extensive look at our crime stats, please visit our website: https://www.phillca.gov/1384/Crime-Statistics

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

San Pablo PD Graveyard Shift: Crystals & Pistols

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Photos: San Pablo PD

By San Pablo Police Department

Friday night, Sept. 18, 2026, your San Pablo Police Department graveyard officers kept busy.

One traffic stop led to the arrest of a prohibited felon who was carrying a concealed firearm equipped with a conversion device that made the firearm capable of fully automatic fire.

A second traffic stop resulted in the discovery of an individual possessing methamphetamine.

Two stops. Two dangerous discoveries.

The name of the game that night was “Crystals & Pistols.”

Our officers remain vigilant around the clock, working to keep our streets safe. Great work by the graveyard shift!

Pittsburg cop shot inside police station leaves hospital

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As he leaves the hospital on Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, Pittsburg Police Officer Jimmy Sanchez is greeted by Chief Phil Galer and congratulated by his fellow officers and other department staff. Photos: Pittsburg PD

By Allen D. Payton

A post on the Pittsburg Police Department’s Facebook page on Friday, Sept. 18th, announced that the officer who was shot inside the police station on Thursday, September 3rd, 2026, Jimmy Sanchez, was able to leave the hospital.

As previously reported, on that day Pittsburg Officers arrested 31-year-old Michael Arthur-Sanchez Gardner Martin for driving a stolen vehicle and outstanding felony warrants. He was transported to the police department for booking. While in booking a physical altercation between the suspect and a solo officer occurred during which a firearm was discharged striking both Officer Sanchez and the suspect.

According to Chief Phil Galer, the suspect was searched at the time of his arrest and again after being transported to our booking facility. During both searches, the same officer failed to locate a firearm concealed in the suspect’s clothing. Officer Sanchez was not the arresting or searching officer.

Officer Sanchez was transported to a local hospital and was listed in serious but stable condition. The suspect was also transported to a local hospital and listed in stable condition.

On Friday the Department wrote, “Today is a day we’ve been waiting for. After being shot in the line of duty, Officer Jimmy Sanchez is finally leaving the hospital to continue his recovery surrounded by the people who love him most.

“Jimmy isn’t just a Pittsburg Police Officer, he’s Pittsburg through and through. A homegrown kid who was raised in this community and grew up to serve and protect the same city that helped shape him. That makes today’s milestone even more special.

“Today marks a tremendous step forward. Jimmy’s courage, strength, and determination throughout this ordeal have been truly inspiring.

“To the doctors, nurses, first responders, law enforcement agencies, community members, and everyone who called, sent messages, or kept Jimmy and his family in their thoughts, THANK YOU. Your support has meant more than words can express.

“And to Officer Jimmy Sanchez: Welcome Home, Jimmy.

“Your PPD family, and the Pittsburg community are with you every step of the way.”

Fund A Hero Account to Support Officer Sanchez & His Family

A Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) Fund A Hero account has been established by the Pittsburg Police Officers Association to raise funds “to help provide Officer Sanchez and his family with meals and other essential expenses while they navigate his recovery.”

See related articles here, here, here and here.

 

 

Pittsburg Police Officers Association raising funds for injured cop shot by detainee

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Source: PORAC

By Allen D. Payton

In a post on the Pittsburg Police Officers Association Facebook page last week, they announced that a Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC) Fund A Hero account has been established to raise funds to help one of their own who was shot inside the police station by a detainee earlier this month. (See related articles here and here)

Then, over the weekend on PORAC’s Facebook page it was also announced: “Pittsburg Police Officer Jimmy Sanchez was seriously injured in the line of duty on September 3. His courageous actions helped protect fellow officers and prevent further harm. Stand with Officer Sanchez and his family. Donate to his Fund A Hero here: https://porac.org/fundraiser/pittsburgpoa_officerjimmysanchez/ .”

More was shared both on that website and the Pittsburg POA’s Facebook page offering more details, most of which had previously been reported.

They wrote, “On Thursday, September 3, Officer Jimmy Sanchez of the Pittsburg Police Department was seriously injured in the line of duty while protecting others and carrying out his duties as a police officer.

“Jimmy is a four-and-a-half-year veteran of the Pittsburg Police Department who has dedicated himself to serving the community and helping those around him. During this tragic incident, Jimmy was violently attacked by an armed suspect inside the department’s booking facility.

“Jimmy had approached the suspect after he requested water and said he was not feeling well. In an act that reflects the compassion and professionalism he brings to his work, Jimmy was simply attempting to check on the suspect’s welfare when he was suddenly ambushed.

“The suspect attacked Jimmy, striking him repeatedly with a firearm before firing a single round. “Jimmy suffered serious gunshot injuries, including a wound to his lower abdomen below his body armor.

“Despite being brutally beaten and shot, Jimmy refused to give up.

“He continued fighting and played a critical role in preventing the suspect from firing additional rounds. Jimmy’s actions gave responding officers the precious time they needed to enter the booking facility, disarm the suspect, and bring the attack to an end.

“Jimmy’s courage and determination undoubtedly saved lives that day.

“He was transported for emergency medical care and underwent surgery for his injuries. He is now recovering with his family, friends, and his Pittsburg Police Department family by his side.

“While Jimmy focuses on healing, his family is facing the difficult reality of caring for a loved one recovering from a traumatic line-of-duty injury while also caring for their 10-month-old baby. The physical and emotional challenges of this recovery are significant, and the last thing Jimmy and his family should have to worry about is the financial burden that accompanies an unexpected injury like this.

“Your support will help provide Jimmy and his family with meals and other essential expenses while they navigate his recovery. Every contribution, regardless of size, is an opportunity to show Jimmy and his family that they are not alone.

“The Pittsburg community, Jimmy’s fellow officers, friends, and countless others have already surrounded him with an incredible outpouring of support.

“Now, we ask you to stand with Jimmy and his family as he continues to fight to recover.

“Thank you for supporting Officer Jimmy Sanchez, his family, and the Pittsburg Police Department during this incredibly difficult time. Your generosity, prayers, and encouragement mean more than words can express.”

———-

As of early Monday morning, Sept. 14th, a total of $10,975 had been raised.

According to the website, “100% of donation proceeds will go to the organizing PORAC Association to distribute to the individual and/or their family.”

Two Discovery Bay boys die in fatal two-vehicle collision near Antioch, Brentwood city boundary early Sunday

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Both were student-athletes at Liberty High in Brentwood, two others injured, including another Liberty student-athlete

UPDATES: No police chase prior to collision; third boy who survived, the driver from Brentwood, identified; online fundraisers for families of the two deceased and survivor’s recovery established

By Lt. Franco Cesar, Antioch Police Department

ANTIOCH, CA – The Antioch Police Department is deeply saddened to report a fatal traffic collision that occurred early Sunday morning, claiming two lives and leaving others injured.

On September 13, 2026, at 12:11 AM, APD Dispatch received a report of a major vehicle collision in the area of Deer Valley Road and Balfour Road. Officers arrived on scene at 12:21 AM and located two vehicles involved: a white BMW and a silver Infiniti.

Tragically, two occupants inside the Infiniti died at the scene. A third individual from the Infiniti sustained injuries and was promptly transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. The driver of the BMW also sustained injuries as a result of the collision.  According to Sgt. Rob Green the two deceased were 17-year-old males from Discovery Bay. According to a report by The Press, they were “Liberty High School student-athletes” and one of the injured was another current Liberty student and athlete from the school.

The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under active investigation by the Antioch Police Department Traffic Unit. Out of respect for the families and loved ones involved, law enforcement is working to confirm the identity of one victim and complete next-of-kin notifications before releasing additional information.

UPDATE 1 (9/14/26): One of the two boys has been identified by his mother.In posts on her Facebook page and the Instagram account for her photography business Monday morning, Sept. 14th, Stephanie Starkenberg-Ferrari shared her son’s name, Dominic Anthony Starkenberg Ferrari, and his birthdate, March 21, 2009, along with his photo.

The victims of the fatal collision were Dominic Anthony Starkenberg Ferrari (left) and Caden Kyle (right). Sources: (left) Facebook and (right) AngeLink

UPDATE 2 (9/15/26): The other boy was identified in an online fundraiser on AngeLink, as Caden Kyle. That was organized by Lynne Mile on behalf of Chris Kyle and Shannon Boyle. As of Tuesday afternoon, $32,244 of $35,000 Goal had been contributed. In addition, a GoFundMe account has been set up to benefit Starkenberg Ferrari’s family, listed as Stephanie, Gino and Sophia. As of Tuesday evening, $39,548 of the $47,000 goal had been raised.

UPDATE 3 (9/15/26): Not a Police Chase

To dispel one of the rumors on social media that a police chase had occurred prior to the collision, Sgt. Green said, “It was not a police chase. The BMW involved, did flee from East Bay Regional Park Police a week before the crash. But there is no indication the driver of the BMW was the one who fled. That car was entered as a felony vehicle on the CHP log. That’s how that rumor started.”

Asked about the driver of the other vehicle with the three boys inside he said, “Neither of the boys who died was the driver. The boy who survived was.”

“That is all we have right now. We are just determining if there was any negligence involved,” Green added.

The third Discovery Bay boy who survived has been identified as James Harper. He was the driver of the car in which his two friends were passengers. Photo: GoFundMe

UPDATE 4 (9/16/26): Third Boy Identified, Online Fundraiser for His Recovery Established

The third boy involved in the fatal collision early Sunday morning, the driver of the Infiniti, has been identified as James Harper. He is from Brentwood according to Sgt. Green. A GoFundMe account has been established by Mateo Morrison to raise funds to support Harper’s recovery. It reads in part, “James is a Liberty student who plays soccer and is active in the FFA” (Future Farmers of America) and “has a long road to recovery in front of him.” As of Wednesday evening, $16,029 of the $20,000 goal had been raised.

As investigators work to piece together the events leading up to the collision, the Antioch Police Department asks anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who has surveillance or dashcam footage from the area around the time of the crash, to please come forward. If you have any information, please contact Sgt. Green of the Traffic Unit at (925) 779-6864. Anonymous tips may also be submitted directly to the department. Case No.: 26-8743.

Please check back later for any additional updates to this report.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Female suspect ID’d in attempted murder of Richmond cop

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The suspect’s two firearms confiscated by police and multiple bullet holes in the door and wall outside the home where the shooting occurred. Photos: Richmond PD

Fired over 30 rounds, charged with four felonies including murder, held on $950k bail; officer recovering

By The Richmond Police Department

The Richmond Police Department is providing additional information regarding the recent attempted murder of one of our police officers during a call for service involving our partners with A3 (Contra Costa County Behavior Health Crisis Response Team).

As previously reported, at approximately 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, Contra Costa Health’s A3 Crisis Response was contacted regarding a request to conduct a mental health check on an individual in the 2200 block of Key Boulevard. A3 is Contra Costa County’s behavioral health crisis response program. When circumstances present a potential safety concern, A3 may request assistance from law enforcement. Due to the nature of the call, A3 requested that Richmond Police officers accompany them to the location.

During this extremely dangerous incident, the suspect, 39-year-old Jasmine Nicole Robinson (born
6/19/1987), fired in excess of 30 rounds from a Romarm/Cugir Draco-C rifle. Our officer was struck by gunfire shortly after arriving at the scene. We are incredibly fortunate that our officer survived and is continuing to recover from their injuries.

We are also grateful that our A3 partners, neighboring residents, and other responding personnel were not injured as numerous rounds were fired from the residence, which included striking a Richmond Police patrol vehicle.

The significant threat posed by the suspect required a large-scale tactical response, including armored rescue vehicles and specialized resources from allied law enforcement agencies. These resources were critical in allowing personnel to safely respond to an exceptionally dangerous and unpredictable situation and ultimately take the suspect into custody.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our allied law enforcement partners who responded without hesitation to assist the Richmond Police Department. Their professionalism, teamwork, and willingness to place themselves in harm’s way were instrumental in bringing this incident to a safe conclusion.

We are thankful that despite the extraordinary level of gunfire and danger presented during this incident, our officer survived, our A3 partners were unharmed, and no members of our community were injured.

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, the five-feet, six-inch tall, 150-pound Robinson is non-Hispanic, also listed as Black, and is being held in the West Re-Entry Treatment and Housing facility in Richmond on $950,000 bail. She is charged with four felonies including murder, assault committed with a high-risk firearm, kidnapping and maliciously and willfully firing a gun at an inhabited dwelling house, occupied building, occupied motor vehicle, occupied aircraft, inhabited housecar, or inhabited camper.

According to MyLife, Robinson currently lives in Vallejo and previously lived in Richmond at two different addresses on the street where last week’s incident occurred, and one other.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Pittsburg Police Chief Galer ID’s officer, Oakley man in shooting inside police station

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Issues Critical Incident Update explains what transpired

“Officer Sanchez had been ambushed, beaten and shot. He still did not stop fighting.” – Chief Galer who admits another “officer failed to locate firearm concealed in the suspect’s clothing.”

Suspect has arrest record

Actualización sobre incidente crítico: Un mensaje del Jefe de Policía Phil Galer

By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the Pittsburg City Manager

The following message was issued today, Tuesday, September 8, 2026, by Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer regarding last Thursday’s officer-involved shooting inside the Pittsburg Police station. (See related article)

“On Thursday, September 3, at approximately 3:45 PM Officer Jimmy Sanchez, a four-and-a-half-year veteran of the police department, was violently attacked and shot while fighting for his life inside the Pittsburg Police Department booking facility.

Our preliminary investigation determined that officers arrested 31-year-old Michael Arthur-Sanchez Gardner Martin (born 12/25/94) for driving a stolen vehicle and outstanding felony warrants. He was searched at the time of his arrest and again after being transported to our booking facility. During both searches, the same officer failed to locate a firearm concealed in the suspect’s clothing.

That was a serious failure. We acknowledge it, and it will be thoroughly examined through an administrative investigation. We will determine how it happened and take immediate corrective action to prevent it from happening again.

But that failure cannot be allowed to obscure what happened next.

Based on our preliminary investigation and available evidence, after being placed in a holding cell, the suspect concealed the firearm inside a toilet. A few hours later while awaiting transport to county jail, he retrieved it and hid it beneath a jail blanket draped over his shoulders.

Officer Jimmy Sanchez, who was not the arresting or searching officer, later entered the booking facility.  At this time the suspect asked him for water and told him he was not feeling well. Officer Sanchez brought him water and approached the cell to check on his welfare.

The suspect responded to that act of compassion by attacking him.

Without warning, he punched Officer Sanchez in the face, threw the blanket over his head and repeatedly struck him in the head with the firearm. The suspect then succeeded in firing a single round. Preliminary evidence indicates that round first passed through the suspect’s own thigh before striking Officer Sanchez in the lower abdomen below his body armor. Based on the evidence currently available, both gunshot wounds resulted from the single round fired by the suspect.

Officer Sanchez had been ambushed, beaten and shot. He still did not stop fighting.

His actions prevented the suspect from firing another round and gave responding officers the time they needed to enter the facility, disarm the suspect and end the attack. Those officers responded without hesitation and demonstrated extraordinary courage, discipline and restraint.

They then provided immediate medical aid to both Officer Sanchez and the suspect.

I want to make one very clear distinction. While the firearm should have never been allowed to make it into our booking facility, it was Martin who knowingly concealed, retrieved and then utilized that firearm to ambush, violently assault and ultimately try to take the life of one of our officers. That distinction matters and I do not want legitimate criticism of a failure of a young officer’s search to overshadow that fact.

Officer Sanchez did not survive because Martin stopped his attack or decided to change course. Officer Sanchez survived because he refused to give up. He survived because he fought through a brutal attack, a gunshot wound, and because he and his fellow officers physically ripped a gun away from Martin’s hands.

That is the story I do not want to get lost as we move forward through this traumatic incident.

As it relates to medical status. The suspect was treated at a local hospital and subsequently booked the same day into county jail on multiple felony charges including attempted murder of a police officer. Officer Sanchez underwent surgery for his injuries and is recovering with family and the department by his side. A third assisting officer was treated for minor injuries and is recovering.

I want to thank our community, elected officials and City staff for the extraordinary support they have shown Officer Sanchez, his family and our department. I also want to thank the first responders and medical personnel who cared for him, and the Pittsburg police officers who responded that day with courage, decisive action, professionalism and restraint.

In closing, several media stories have reported details of this incident citing “police sources.” I want to be clear these sources were not authorized Pittsburg Police informational releases. I have intentionally delayed this official release until our detectives and investigators from the Contra County District Attorney’s Office have had an opportunity to collect and review critical evidence and interview all applicable witnesses. This is still an active investigation and I do not plan on releasing any further information at this time. Our focus will remain on supporting our officers, their family and ensuring the integrity of this investigation as it moves forward through the criminal justice system.”

Phil Galer, Chief of Police, Pittsburg Police Department

According to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office In-Custody Details, the five-foot, eight-inch tall, 220-pound Martin is Hispanic and being h eld in the Martinez Detention Facility on no bail, although it’s been set at $472,000. His next court appearance is scheduled for Sept. 16 at 8:30 a.m. in Martinez Superior Court Dept. 5.

According to localcrimenews.com, Martin is an Oakley resident and July 1, 2025, he was arrested for being under the influence of a controlled substance with a firearm, possession of drug paraphernalia, addict/felon/etc. in possession of firearm, carrying a loaded firearm on person or in vehicle while in public place, carry a concealed weapon in a vehicle and possession/etc. of a firearm without an identifying mark.

According to court records, a Request for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order was filed against Martin by Vanessa Ponce on Nov. 23, 2022. But during a hearing on Dec. 15th that year, it was dismissed.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Actualización sobre incidente crítico: Un mensaje del Jefe de Policía Phil Galer

Por Sara Bellafronte, Asistente del Administrador de la Ciudad Pittsburg

El jueves 3 de septiembre, aproximadamente a las 3:45 p. m., el oficial Jimmy Sanchez —veterano con cuatro años y medio de servicio en el departamento de policía— fue atacado violentamente y recibió un disparo mientras luchaba por su vida dentro de las instalaciones de procesamiento de detenidos del Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg.

Nuestra investigación preliminar determinó que los oficiales arrestaron a Michael Sanchez Gardner Martin, de 31 años, por conducir un vehículo robado y por tener órdenes de arresto pendientes por delitos graves. Fue registrado en el momento de su detención y nuevamente tras ser trasladado a nuestras instalaciones de procesamiento. En ambos registros, el mismo oficial no logró detectar un arma de fuego oculta entre las ropas del sospechoso.

Esa fue una falla grave. Lo reconocemos, y el asunto será examinado minuciosamente mediante una investigación administrativa. Determinaremos cómo sucedió y tomaremos medidas correctivas inmediatas para evitar que vuelva a ocurrir.

Sin embargo, no podemos permitir que esa falla opaque lo que sucedió después.

Según nuestra investigación preliminar y las pruebas disponibles, tras ser colocado en una celda de detención, el sospechoso ocultó el arma de fuego dentro de un inodoro. Unas horas más tarde, mientras esperaba el traslado a la cárcel del condado, la recuperó y la escondió bajo una manta de la cárcel que llevaba sobre los hombros.

El oficial Jimmy Sanchez, quien no había participado en el arresto ni en los registros previos, entró posteriormente en el área de procesamiento. En ese momento, el sospechoso le pidió agua y le dijo que no se sentía bien. El oficial Sanchez le llevó agua y se acercó a la celda para verificar su estado.

El sospechoso respondió a ese acto de compasión atacándolo.

Sin previo aviso, golpeó al oficial Sanchez en el rostro, le arrojó la manta sobre la cabeza y lo golpeó repetidamente en la cabeza con el arma de fuego. Luego, el sospechoso logró disparar una sola vez. Las pruebas preliminares indican que la bala atravesó primero el muslo del propio sospechoso antes de impactar al oficial Sanchez en la parte baja del abdomen, por debajo de su chaleco antibalas. Según la evidencia disponible actualmente, ambas heridas de bala fueron causadas por el único disparo efectuado por el sospechoso.

El oficial Sánchez fue víctima de una emboscada, golpeado y baleado. Aun así, no dejó de luchar.

Sus acciones impidieron que el sospechoso disparara otra vez y dieron a los oficiales que acudieron al lugar el tiempo necesario para entrar en las instalaciones, desarmar al sospechoso y poner fin al ataque. Dichos oficiales intervinieron sin vacilar y demostraron un valor, una disciplina y una contención extraordinarios.

Acto seguido, brindaron asistencia médica inmediata tanto al oficial Sánchez como al sospechoso.

Quiero hacer una distinción muy clara. Si bien nunca se debió haber permitido que el arma de fuego llegara a nuestras instalaciones de registro, fue Martin quien, a sabiendas, ocultó, sacó y utilizó dicha arma para tender una emboscada, agredir violentamente y, finalmente, intentar quitarle la vida a uno de nuestros oficiales. Esa distinción es importante, y no quiero que las críticas legítimas sobre el fallo en el registro realizado por un oficial joven eclipsen ese hecho.

El oficial Sánchez no sobrevivió porque Martin detuviera su ataque o decidiera cambiar de actitud. El oficial Sánchez sobrevivió porque se negó a rendirse. Sobrevivió porque luchó para superar un ataque brutal y una herida de bala, y porque él y sus compañeros lograron arrebatarle físicamente el arma de las manos a Martin.

Esa es la historia que no quiero que se pierda mientras avanzamos tras este traumático incidente.

En cuanto al estado médico: el sospechoso fue atendido en un hospital local y, ese mismo día, ingresado en la cárcel del condado bajo múltiples cargos graves, incluido el intento de asesinato de un agente de policía. El oficial Sánchez fue sometido a una cirugía por sus heridas y se está recuperando acompañado por su familia y miembros del departamento. Un tercer oficial que prestó apoyo fue atendido por lesiones leves y se encuentra en proceso de recuperación.

Quiero agradecer a nuestra comunidad, a los funcionarios electos y al personal municipal por el extraordinario apoyo que han brindado al oficial Sánchez, a su familia y a nuestro departamento. También deseo expresar mi gratitud a los equipos de emergencia y al personal médico que lo atendieron, así como a los oficiales de policía de Pittsburg que intervinieron aquel día con valentía, decisión, profesionalismo y contención.

Para finalizar, diversos medios de comunicación han difundido detalles de este incidente citando “fuentes policiales”. Quiero aclarar que dichas fuentes no emitieron comunicados oficiales autorizados por la Policía de Pittsburg. He retrasado deliberadamente este comunicado oficial hasta que nuestros detectives y los investigadores de la Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa tuvieran la oportunidad de recopilar y examinar pruebas cruciales, así como de entrevistar a todos los testigos pertinentes. La investigación sigue en curso y no tengo previsto facilitar más información por el momento. Seguiremos centrados en apoyar a nuestros agentes y a sus familias, así como en garantizar la integridad de esta investigación a medida que avanza a través del sistema de justicia penal.

Phil Galer, Jefe de Policía, Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg

56-year-old woman dies in fatal solo vehicle collision in Brentwood

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By Chris Bollinger, Community Engagement Officer, Brentwood Police Department

This morning, Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at approximately 6:16 am, Brentwood Police officers responded to the area of Sand Creek Road and Shady Willow Lane regarding a collision involving a vehicle and an agricultural tractor.

Officers and medical personnel arrived on scene and located a 56-year-old female driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. Despite lifesaving efforts, she was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The cause of the collision remains under investigation. At this time, it is unknown weather drugs or alcohol were a factor in the collision.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

Anyone who witnessed the collision or has information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Brentwood Police Department at (925) 809-7911.

Richmond cop wounded, armed barricaded suspect arrested

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Following mental health check, multi-agency effort

20-year veteran of the department

Second cop shot in county Thursday

By Lt. Donald Patchin, Richmond Police Department

RICHMOND, Calif. — At approximately 6:41 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, 2026, Contra Costa Health’s A3 Crisis Response was contacted regarding a request to conduct a mental health check on an individual in the 2200 block of Key Boulevard. A3 is Contra Costa County’s behavioral health crisis response program. When circumstances present a potential safety concern, A3 may request assistance from law enforcement. Due to the nature of the call, A3 requested that Richmond Police officers accompany them to the location.

When the first officer arrived at the residence, the officer was struck by gunfire. The officer was immediately transported to a local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition. The officer is expected to survive.

The suspect barricaded inside the residence and continued firing numerous rounds indiscriminately from within the home. Several rounds struck an RPD Patrol vehicle and neighboring residences, but fortunately, no residents or additional personnel were injured.

Screenshot of El Cerrito Police lockdown order on CWS showing the area near the incident. Source: John Gioia

On social media and the County Sheriff’s Community Warning System, Richmond Police issued a shelter-in-place order and El Cerrito Police issued a lockdown order for the nearby neighborhood. The public was informed, “As of 8:00 pm, there is recently law enforcement activity in Richmond near the El Cerrito border. People in the area near Canyon Trail Park and Key Boulevard are advised to LOCK DOWN IN THE NEAREST PLACE POSSIBLE. Go inside, lock all windows and doors. Stay off the phone and do not call 911 unless you need to report a life-threatening emergency. To report suspicious activity, contact El Cerrito Police. Stay indoors until you receive further instructions.” The order was later lifted.

In addition, District 1 Supervisor John Gioia posted on his Facebook page, “Since 8 pm tonight (Thursday) there has been a lockdown ordered for residents in Richmond near the Grocery Outlet due to law enforcement activity. Stay indoors and lock windows and doors if you live in the affected area shown in red below. Police were seen entering the Grocery Outlet. Don’t be curious and attempt to go outdoors. Be safe inside and police will release more info when they deem it appropriate.”

The Richmond Police Department SWAT Team responded with assistance from the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department. The RPD Crisis Negotiations Team responded and established contact with the suspect in an attempt to bring this incident to a peaceful resolution. Chemical agents were also deployed in an effort to gain the suspect’s compliance.

The suspect eventually exited the residence and was taken into custody without further incident. According to ABC7 News, the suspect was a woman who “was taken into custody after an hourslong standoff.”

We are extremely grateful that our officer is in stable condition and expected to survive. We are also thankful that no residents or assisting personnel were injured despite the significant danger created by the suspect’s indiscriminate gunfire.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office, East Bay Regional Park District Police Department, and El Cerrito Police Department for their immediate response and assistance. Their collaboration helped bring this dangerous incident to a peaceful resolution without further injury or loss of life.

Screenshot of a portion PORAC’s post on X Friday, Sept. 4, 2026.

In a post on X (Twitter) Friday morning, PORAC (Peace Officers Research Association of California) wrote, “Thankfully, the 20-year veteran is in stable condition and expected to survive. Please join PORAC in keeping this officer, their loved ones, and the Richmond Police Department family in your thoughts and prayers for a full and speedy recovery.”

ABC7 News further reported the officer was “a 20-year veteran of the department.”

This remains an active and ongoing investigation. Additional information will be provided as investigators complete their work and further details become available for public release.

It was the second shooting of police officer in the county Thursday as a Pittsburg officer was shot by a detainee inside the Pittsburg Police Department earlier in the day. (See related article)

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.

Pittsburg leaders issue statements on officer-involved shooting inside police station

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By Sara Bellafronte, Assistant to the Pittsburg City Manager

In response to the officer-involved shooting inside the Pittsburg Police Department Thursday afternoon, Sept. 3, 2026, in which both an officer and an in-custody suspect were shot, City leaders swiftly issued statements regarding the attack. (See related article)

“My heart is with our Police department, the injured Officer and their family,” said Mayor Dionne Adams. “This is an upsetting moment for our community. As a lifelong Pittsburg resident, I have seen firsthand the progress our Police Department has made through community-centered policing and strengthening relationships with those they serve. Violence like this is deeply troubling and has no place in our community. I want to thank our officers for their bravery and quick response.”

The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office and the Pittsburg Police Investigations Division are actively investigating the incident, consistent with standard protocol. Because the investigation is active no additional information is being released.

“Our officers acted heroically today,” said Pittsburg Police Chief Phil Galer. “I am grateful to the Contra Costa County paramedics and fire fighters as well as the surrounding agencies who provided support to our Department in this time of crisis. I know I’m joined by the residents of Pittsburg in hoping for a full recovery for our Officer.”

“Our entire City staff is relieved to know our officer is in stable condition. I am thankful for the swift and skilled actions of our Police Department and other first responders to prevent this horrible incident from becoming an even worse tragedy,” said City Manager Darin Gale. “Pittsburg is a community that rejects violence and deeply respects the important work of our officers. Today’s attack is a reminder of the bravery and dangers our officers face every day. We are truly fortunate they have chosen to serve our community.”

Supervisor Scales-Preston Issues Statement

In addition, Contra Costa County District 5 Supervisor Shanelle Scales Preston issued a statement about the incident. She wrote, “I am heartbroken and outraged to learn that one of our Pittsburg police officers has been shot this afternoon. Pittsburg is my home, and violence against law enforcement officers anywhere, is unacceptable.”

“I’m asking the entire Pittsburg community to hold this officer, their family, and the entire department in their prayers right now,” she added.

Autoridades municipales emiten declaraciones sobre un tiroteo en el que participó un agente dentro de la comisaría

Esta misma tarde, el Departamento de Policía de Pittsburg emitió el siguiente comunicado:

El jueves 3 de septiembre, agentes de Pittsburg detuvieron a un hombre de 31 años. Fue trasladado a la comisaría para realizar los trámites de registro y detención. Durante dicho proceso, se produjo un altercado físico entre el sospechoso y un agente que se encontraba solo; en el transcurso del mismo, se disparó un arma de fuego, hiriendo tanto al agente como al sospechoso. El agente fue trasladado a un hospital local y su estado se reporta como grave pero estable. El sospechoso también fue trasladado a un hospital local y se encuentra en condición estable. La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg se encuentran en el lugar y están investigando activamente el incidente.

Por el momento no hay más información disponible.

Los líderes de la ciudad emitieron rápidamente declaraciones sobre el ataque.

“Mis pensamientos están con nuestro Departamento de Policía, con el agente herido y con su familia”, declaró la alcaldesa Dionne Adams. “Es un momento angustioso para nuestra comunidad. Como residente de Pittsburg de toda la vida, he sido testigo directo de los avances que ha logrado nuestro Departamento de Policía mediante un modelo policial centrado en la comunidad y el fortalecimiento de los vínculos con las personas a las que sirven. Una violencia de este tipo es profundamente preocupante y no tiene cabida en nuestra comunidad. Quiero agradecer a nuestros agentes su valentía y su rápida respuesta”.

La Fiscalía del Condado de Contra Costa y la División de Investigaciones de la Policía de Pittsburg están investigando activamente el incidente, siguiendo el protocolo habitual. Dado que la investigación está en curso, no se facilitará más información por el momento.

“Nuestros agentes actuaron hoy de forma heroica”, afirmó el jefe de policía de Pittsburg, Phil Galer. “Agradezco la labor de los paramédicos y bomberos del condado de Contra Costa, así como de las agencias vecinas que brindaron apoyo a nuestro departamento en este momento de crisis. Sé que los residentes de Pittsburg comparten conmigo el deseo de que nuestro agente se recupere plenamente”.

“Todo el personal de la ciudad se siente aliviado al saber que nuestro agente se encuentra en condición estable. Agradezco la rápida y eficaz actuación de nuestro Departamento de Policía y de los demás equipos de emergencia para evitar que este terrible incidente se convirtiera en una tragedia aún mayor”, declaró el administrador de la ciudad, Darin Gale. “Pittsburg es una comunidad que rechaza la violencia y respeta profundamente la importante labor de nuestros agentes. El ataque de hoy nos recuerda la valentía y los peligros a los que se enfrentan nuestros agentes a diario. Somos verdaderamente afortunados de que hayan elegido servir a nuestra comunidad”.

Allen D. Payton contributed to this report.