Modesto Man Faces Attempted Murder Charge in Officer-Involved Shooting
A Stanislaus County man who was wounded in an officer-involved shooting is expected to be booked on suspicion of attempted murder after allegedly opening fire at a pursuing officer.
According to a press release by the Modesto Police Department, an officer conducted a routine bike stop in the vicinity of Yosemite Boulevard and Phoenix Avenue on the night of Saturday, June 3. The individual in question, later identified as 29-year-old Gordon Massey of Modesto, reportedly evaded the officer by fleeing on his bicycle.
An officer-involved shooting occurred during the pursuit; investigators determined that, as the chase continued, Massey allegedly discharged several rounds at the pursuing officer. The officer reportedly returned fire, striking Massey at least once.
Following his arrest, Massey was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Upon completion of medical care, he was taken into custody and booked on suspicion of attempted murder on a peace officer, various weapons-related offenses, and multiple outstanding warrants. The officer involved in the incident emerged unharmed.
A firearm was discovered at the scene of the incident and has been secured as evidence, police said. To ensure a thorough examination of the circumstances, the Modesto Police Department Violent Crimes Unit, the Modesto Police Department Internal Affairs Unit, and the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office are each conducting separate investigations, adhering to established protocol for officer-involved shootings.
In accordance with standard procedure, the officer directly involved in the shooting has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the conclusion of the investigations. This measure aims to maintain the integrity of the ongoing inquiry and provide necessary support to the officer.
Given the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further details can be disclosed at this time. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
The Modesto Police Department encourages anyone with relevant information about the incident to come forward and assist in the investigation.
