Sacramento County Sheriff North Patrol Deputies conducted a suspicious vehicle stop on a vehicle that matched the depscription of a vehicle that was used in a series of burglary’s. Upon the initial contact with the driver of the vehicle, they identified the subject to be on active parole. The subject then became uncooperative and then fled in hisw vehicle when deputies attempted to search his vehicle. A short pursuit ensued that terminated inside of the Cal Expo Complex located at 1600 Exposition Boulevard. The suspect vehicle then became disabled after striking a curb and came to rest near a chain-link fence. Multiple patrol units gathered at the termination point to assist the initial deputies. Deputies gave several commands for the suspect ot exit his vehicle and he refused. Deputiefs deployed less-lethal “bean bag” rounds into the suspect vehicle’s back window in an attempt to see inside. A K-9 handler deployed his K-9 into the back window of the vehilce at which time several shots were fired within the vehicle. Two deputies and the canine were struck by suspect’s gunfire. Multiple Deputies returned fire.
The wounded officers were transported by deputies in patrol units to an area hospital. Deputy Adam Gibson, a 31-year-old, 6 year veteran of the department, was pronounced deceased at the hospital. A second deputy was stabilized and transported to a trauma center for further treatment. K-9 Riley also died at the scene. K-9 Riley was 5 years old and had been in-service with our office for 3 years. Fire arrived on scene and pronounced the sole occupant of the suspect vehicle deceased at the scene.
Homicide detectives and Crime Scene Investigators responded to the scene and began interviewing witnesses and processing evidence. The investigation is still in its early stages and information is still developing.
Deputy Gibson leaves behind his wife, 9 month old child, his parents and several siblings. Deputy Gibson served in the United States Marine Corps and did two tours in Afghanistan. Since joining the department in 2014 he has worked in corrections, patrol and most recently a canine handler. Deputy Gibson received the Sheriff’s Office Bronze Star for Bravery and Major Incident Ribbon in 2018.
The wounded deputy is 43 years old, a 13 year veteran of the department and remains hospitalized in serious, but stable conditions.
This incidenct took place on 1/18/2021 and may both Deputy Gibson and K-9 Riley rest in peace and thank you for your service.
