Sheriff’s Office Identifies Suspect in Fatal Deputy-Involved Shooting in Nipomo
Image from incident | Courtesy of San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office
SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA — The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has released updated information regarding a deputy-involved shooting that took place on Sunday, April 19, 2026, in Nipomo.
The incident occurred in the 700 block of Hill Street after deputies responded to a report of a family disturbance. According to initial reports, an adult male was inside an apartment shared with his mother and grandmother and was allegedly threatening to kill his mother. Upon arrival, deputies encountered the suspect in the doorway of the ground-floor residence. The suspect then retreated into the apartment, armed himself with a shotgun, and pointed the weapon at the deputies.
During the ensuing encounter, the suspect discharged the shotgun at the deputies. The deputies returned fire, striking the suspect. Despite the immediate application of lifesaving measures by the deputies, the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene. No law enforcement personnel were injured during the exchange.
Authorities identified the deceased as 48-year-old Joseph Munoz. Investigators noted that Munoz had a prior criminal history, including felony convictions for domestic battery, DUI, and possession of a controlled substance for sale, as well as a voluntary manslaughter conviction for which he served a 12-year prison sentence.
Per department policy, the deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave. The Sheriff’s Office stated that the investigation is active and there is no ongoing threat to the public.
