Above: Cpl. Michael Paredes (L) and Officer Joseph Santana (R)
EL MONTE – The City of El Monte lost two officers at a crime scene – both shot while in the line of duty on June 14th. “It is with heavy hearts that The City of El Monte and The El Monte Police Department announce the passing of Corporal Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana. Corporal Paredes and Officer Santana were killed in the line of duty, while faithfully carrying out their sworn duties.”
The officers had immediately responded to a reported domestic violence scene – and were met with tragic gunfire. Corporal Paredes and Officer Santana were raised in the city of El Monte, with strong connection to the community they served.
District Attorney Gascón offered his condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of El Monte Police Cpl. Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana. “This has been a difficult few days in Los Angeles County, and many people are in pain, mourning the loss of these heroic officers,” District Attorney Gascón said.
“I know that their families will be grieving for a long time, and that no words will ease their suffering. As a former police officer, I deeply appreciate the sacrifices of these officers and their commitment to making our county safe.”
There is an ongoing investigation, and no further information is being released at this time. During the cries for justice and change, District Attorney Gascón continued, “We cannot use single tragedies to make policy,” District Attorney Gascón said. “We have done that in the past, reacting harshly to isolated incidents that frighten and anger us. But it failed to increase community safety, contributed to mass incarceration and emptied our public coffers of funds we could otherwise devote to education, healthcare, housing, infrastructure and economic development.”
