Full Notification

*** 2nd UPDATE*** (see charges)

On April 15, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Kern County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to Metro Patrol were dispatched to the Rite Aid on South H Street and Ming Avenue for a report of theft in progress. Upon arrival deputies located a subject matching the description of the theft suspect and a foot pursuit ensued. Subsequently an officer involved shooting occurred in the 1700 block of Marshall Street.

All details regarding the officer involved shooting will be released at a later date, pending the completion of critical incident review.

After fleeing, the suspect hid in the backyard of a home in the area of Benton Street and Mark Court. Deputies determined the identity and an approximate location of the suspect.

A SWAT and Crisis Negotiation Team Callout was initiated and the suspect, Jeremy Pletcher, age 34, surrendered and was arrested near the intersection of Benton Street and Mark Court for exhibiting a firearm at a peace officer, attempt murder of a peace officer, theft with 2 or more priors, assault on a person with a semi automatic firearm, prohibited person in possession of ammunition, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, carrying a loaded firearm with a prior felony, resisting/obstructing a peace officer, and resisting a peace office with force.

Detectives responded to the scene and assumed the investigation.

No further information will be released at this time. A video presentation to include body worn camera footage and other relevant information will be released at the conclusion of the investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to call (661)861-3110 or Kern Secret Witness at (661)322-4040.

Original Message:
On April 15, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Kern County Sheriff’s Office deputies assigned to Metro Patrol were dispatched to the Rite Aid on South H Street and Ming Avenue for a report of theft in progress. Upon arrival deputies located a subject matching the description of the theft suspect and a foot pursuit ensued. Subsequently an officer involved shooting occurred in the 1700 block of Marshall Street.

All details regarding the officer involved shooting will be released at a later date, pending the completion of critical incident review.

Residents in the area are encouraged to shelter in place and call 911 for any suspicious activity. It is an active crime scene.

We thank our community in advance for their cooperation during this ongoing incident.

Anyone with information is asked to call (661)861-3110 or Kern Secret Witness at (661)322-4040.