DATE/TIME: March 9, 2024 / 4:48 p.m.
INCIDENT: Attempted Murder of Peace Officer / Lethal Force Encounter
LOCATION: 13400 block of Iroquois Road, Apple Valley
SUSPECT: Ryan Gainer, 15-year-old male, Apple Valley Resident
VICTIM: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy
SUMMARY: On Saturday, March 9, 2024, at approximately 4:48 p.m., deputies from the Apple Valley Police Department responded to an emergency 9-1-1 call at a residence in the 13400 block of Iroquois Road. Family reported to Sheriff’s Dispatch Ryan Gainer was actively assaulting family members and damaging property at the residence.
At approximately 4:54 p.m., the first deputy arrived at the residence and was confronted by Gainer, who was armed with an approximate five-foot-long garden tool, with a sharp bladed end. Without provocation, Gainer raised the bladed end of the tool and ran toward the deputy. The deputy retreated and Gainer chased the deputy in an attempt to assault him with the bladed end of the tool. A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire. Deputies quickly rendered medical aid to Gainer and continued until paramedics arrived. Gainer was transported by ambulance to a local hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact Detective Shawn Thurman or Sergeant Justin Giles at the Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904. Callers can remain anonymous and contact We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Refer: Detective Shawn Thurman or Sergeant Justin Giles
Station: Specialized Investigations Division
Phone No. (909) 890-4904
Case No. DR#182401148 / H#2024-022
SHANNON D. DICUS, Sheriff-Coroner
San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department
