APPLE VALLEY, CA – Deputies fatally shot a 15-year-old boy in an incident that took place in Apple Valley, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department reported. The teenager, identified as Ryan Gainer, allegedly charged at the officers with a garden tool.
The events unfolded close to 5 p.m. on Saturday when authorities received a 911 call alleging Gainer was attacking family members and damaging a residence on the 13400 block of Iroquois Road.
Partial body camera footage made public on Sunday reveals the incident from two different deputies’ perspectives. One clip shows a deputy attempting to enter the home when Gainer is seen racing towards him, brandishing what was described by deputies as a “five-foot-long garden tool with a sharp bladed end.” The deputy retreats, gun trained on Gainer, shouting, “Get back! Get back. You’re gonna get shot!” The footage was cut off soon after that took place.
Another body camera records the scene from a deputy approaching the house from outside. This view shows the initial deputy backing away from Gainer, weapon drawn. The recording stops abruptly after that section.
Following the firearm discharge, medical teams transported Gainer to a local hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus issued a statement on Sunday night, acknowledging the tragedy and the need for stronger social safety nets for those dealing with mental health issues. He expressed sympathy for both Gainer’s family and his deputies, stating, “While these decisions are lawful, they are awful in terms of our humanity.”
The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division is currently investigating the fatal shooting. They urge anyone with additional information to contact detectives.