A Baldwin Park police officer was fatally shot Saturday evening while responding to a violent confrontation that began with a parking dispute, leaving the community in shock and mourning. Officer Samuel Riveros, 35, was killed after rushing to assist fellow officers under fire on Filhurst Avenue, following the shooting death of 43-year-old Darius Wong, a father of two who was visiting family for a housewarming party.
Authorities say the suspect, 22-year-old Eduardo Roberto Medina-Berumen, allegedly shot Wong after an argument over parking escalated. When officers arrived, Medina-Berumen opened fire with an AR-15 style rifle, immediately targeting police. Officer Anthony Pimentel was injured by glass shards when bullets struck his patrol car, but survived.
Riveros, described by colleagues as dedicated and selfless, was struck in the head while running toward the gunfire to protect his fellow officers and community. Medina-Berumen was wounded in the exchange and is now facing two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and weapons charges. If convicted, he could face life in prison or the death penalty.
A procession and vigil honoring Officer Riveros drew hundreds of residents, with flags lowered to half-staff across Los Angeles County. Community leaders and family members remembered Riveros for his courage and sacrifice, while calls for unity and justice echoed throughout Baldwin Park.
