BOULDER CITY, NV – An incident involving an off-duty police officer unfolded in Boulder City, Nevada, on Friday, leaving a community in shock and sparking an investigation. Officer Cesar Ybarra, while off duty, reportedly shot and killed his neighbor in what is being described as an act of self-defense. The altercation, which was captured on a neighbor’s cell phone, has prompted the involvement of Metro Police in leading the investigation.
According to authorities, Officer Ybarra heard a disturbance near his residence, located around Sixth Street and Avenue I. Upon investigating, he witnessed a man allegedly assaulting his wife. Acting swiftly, Ybarra intervened, managing to guide the victim into the safety of his home.
However, the confrontation escalated when the suspect reportedly slammed Ybarra’s head against a car and attempted to choke him. In the ensuing struggle, both Officer Ybarra and his wife armed themselves. Despite verbal warnings, the suspect advanced, prompting Ybarra to fire his weapon.
The Boulder City Police Department has noted that although Officer Ybarra was not on duty, he identified himself as a police officer during the incident, which classifies the shooting as officer-involved. This classification has led to Metro Police taking charge of the investigation, given the complexity and sensitivity of the situation.
Officer Ybarra escaped the encounter without injury, while the woman involved in the initial assault is recovering from her injuries. She expressed gratitude towards Ybarra, indicating that his intervention may have saved her life.
The case raises questions about the responsibilities and actions of off-duty officers and the protocols that follow such incidents. The investigation aims to clarify the circumstances and ensure that justice is served.
As the community grapples with the aftermath, the incident highlights the challenges officers face, even when off duty, and the critical decisions they must make in moments of crisis. The Boulder City community awaits further updates as the investigation unfolds.