9/19/2022
RawNews1st – The suspect shot and killed by a Fresno County Sheriff’s deputy has been identified as 27 year old Mathew Lopez of Fresno.
Around 5:20 pm on September 17th, deputies were dispatched to a home on the 2100 block of Mayfair Drive East in Fresno’s Mayfair District. The caller said a disturbance was taking place and someone had been stabbed.
When deputies arrived, they found two people with significant injuries and in need of immediate medical aid.
At this same time, they made contact with the suspect, Mathew Lopez, who was in the front yard of the home, armed with a 12”x12” concrete stepping stone. Deputies commanded Lopez to drop the stone, but he refused.
A deputy deployed a Taser application on Lopez, but it was ineffective. Lopez then charged at another deputy, cocking back the stone, ready to hit him with it.
The deputy fired his gun, striking Lopez. Medical aid was immediately given to the Lopez. EMS personnel transported him to the hospital where he later died.
Homicide investigation Sacramento County: Dempsey is considered Armed & Dangerous
Homicide detectives with the Sheriff’s Office and members of the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office responded to the scene and began an investigation.
The preliminary details are that Lopez was involved in a disturbance with family members inside their home, which turned violent. The family was able to force Lopez outside of the home and dial 911 for help.
The family members whom Lopez assaulted, suffered injuries and received medical treatment. No law enforcement personnel were hurt during the encounter.
This is an ongoing investigation. It marks the third deputy involved shooting of 2022.
Anyone with additional information that may help this investigation is asked to please contact the Detective Jesse Gloria at (559) 600-8217
Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.
