California Department of Justice Investigates Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting in San Luis Obispo
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — The San Luis Obispo Police Department is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026. At approximately 4:46 p.m., the department received multiple 911 calls regarding a male subject in the 900 block of El Capitan Way. Callers reported that the individual was shouting and waving a firearm.
Responding officers located the subject near the intersection of Poinsettia Street and Bluebell Way. According to department officials, the male was yelling and holding an object that appeared to be a handgun. During the encounter, an officer discharged their service weapon, striking the subject once. Although life-saving measures were attempted, the male was pronounced deceased at the scene. His identity is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. No injuries to officers or community members were reported.
A preliminary investigation conducted after the shooting determined that the firearm possessed by the subject was a replica. In accordance with state law and department policy regarding incidents involving simulated firearms, the California Department of Justice has assumed lead over the investigation. The San Luis Obispo Police Department stated it will cooperate fully with the inquiry.
The officer involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave, which is consistent with standard department protocol. Body-worn camera footage of the incident is scheduled for future release per the requirements of Assembly Bill 748. The investigation into incident #260228068 remains ongoing.
