Multi-Agency Pursuit and Shooting Incidents End with Suspect Fatality in San Jose
SAN BENITO, CA – On January 21, 2026, multiple law enforcement agencies were involved in a series of shooting incidents and a multi-city pursuit following an armed carjacking. The incident began at approximately 2:48 p.m. when Hollister Police officers and San Benito County deputies were notified that a San Jose Police helicopter was tracking a vehicle involved in an armed carjacking in San Jose.
Hollister officers located the vehicle near Central Avenue and Miller Road at 2:56 p.m. A slow-speed pursuit followed, ending at Buena Vista Road and Westside Boulevard when the suspect vehicle became disabled. According to police reports, the suspect exited the vehicle armed with a handgun, leading to an officer-involved shooting. No Hollister Police officers were injured during this encounter.
The suspect fled the immediate scene and was located by San Benito deputies near Buena Vista Road and Line Street, where a second shooting occurred. San Benito deputies reported no injuries. The suspect then carjacked a second vehicle at gunpoint and fled Hollister toward San Jose. During the northbound transit, the suspect reportedly fired a weapon from the vehicle window at California Highway Patrol officers.
The pursuit concluded in San Jose, where a final exchange of gunfire occurred between the suspect and the San Jose Police Department. The suspect was killed during the encounter. A San Jose Police Sergeant sustained a gunshot wound and is expected to survive. The Monterey County District Attorney’s Office has responded to investigate the discharge of weapons by officers. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Hollister Police Department.
