Upland Police Release Bodycam Footage, Address Misinformation in Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting
Upland, CA – The Upland Police Department has released body-worn camera footage and detailed information regarding the fatal officer-involved shooting of 36-year-old Steven Espinoza on January 12, 2025. The incident, which began with a domestic disturbance call at an apartment complex on the 1300 block of W. Foothill Blvd., culminated in a foot pursuit and the use of lethal force half a mile away on the 800 block of N. Mountain Ave. The department’s proactive release of information aims to address misinformation circulating online and provide a clear account of the events leading to Espinoza’s death.
The incident began unfolding at 9:58 a.m. when Espinoza’s sister contacted 911, reporting that he was under the influence of fentanyl, armed with a knife, and making threats of violence, including holding her and himself hostage. Knowing officers were en route, Espinoza left the apartment and fled in his vehicle, initiating a brief pursuit. After his vehicle overturned near a Chevron gas station, Espinoza continued his flight on foot, armed with two knives, into a nearby residential neighborhood.
Bodycam footage released by the department shows officers repeatedly instructing Espinoza to remove his hands from his pockets, a command issued at least seven times. Despite these verbal warnings, Espinoza continued to reach into his waistband, where two knives were later recovered. Officers attempted to subdue him using less-lethal force, deploying a 40mm launcher, but these measures proved ineffective. Faced with what they perceived as an immediate threat to public safety and their own safety, officers resorted to lethal force.
Immediately following the shooting, officers are seen on bodycam footage administering medical aid to Espinoza. He was transported to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries. No officers or bystanders were injured during the incident. The release of the bodycam footage is part of the Upland Police Department’s commitment to transparency, according to Chief Marcelo A. Blanco. The department seeks to provide the community with as much information as possible without jeopardizing the ongoing investigations.
The incident sparked online speculation and accusations of police misconduct, fueled by videos of the encounter shared on platforms like YouTube. Commenters on channels like Key News Network alleged that Espinoza was tased while on the ground and subsequently shot for not complying with commands. The Upland Police Department directly refuted these claims, stating that the bodycam footage clearly shows a taser was never deployed. The sound mistaken for a taser, they explained, was likely from Espinoza’s overturned vehicle. The footage also confirms that Espinoza was actively running through a residential area with knives, repeatedly ignoring commands to remove his hands from his pockets before officers resorted to lethal force.
The release of the bodycam footage seeks to counter the narrative presented in these online discussions, providing visual evidence to support the officers’ account of the events. It underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in rapidly evolving, high-stress situations and the difficult decisions they must make to protect public safety. The detailed account of Espinoza’s actions, including his flight, his possession of weapons, and his refusal to comply with commands, provides context crucial to understanding the officers’ decision to use lethal force. The department’s commitment to transparency is evident in their proactive release of information, directly addressing online speculation and providing a platform for informed public discourse.
The investigation into the shooting is being conducted by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office, ensuring independent oversight of the incident. The Upland Police Department is also conducting an internal administrative review to ensure all department policies were followed. Espinoza’s criminal history, which includes prior charges for attempted murder, petty theft, drug-related offenses, and a criminal protective order, along with his known affiliation with the Black Angels gang, has also been disclosed as part of the comprehensive information release. This information, coupled with the 911 call from his sister warning of his potential for combativeness, paints a fuller picture of the circumstances leading up to the confrontation. The ongoing investigations will determine whether the officers’ use of force was justified under the circumstances. The Upland Police Department has pledged to provide further updates as the investigations progress.
This incident highlights the complexities surrounding officer-involved shootings and the importance of transparency and thorough investigations. The release of bodycam footage, while sometimes graphic and disturbing, allows the public to see the events unfold from the perspective of the officers involved. It also serves to hold law enforcement accountable and fosters trust within the community. The ongoing investigations by external agencies will provide an independent assessment of the incident, further contributing to transparency and accountability. The Upland Police Department’s commitment to releasing information and addressing misinformation head-on is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring a complete understanding of the events that led to Steven Espinoza’s death.
The details provided by the Upland Police Department paint a complex picture of the events leading up to the fatal shooting of Steven Espinoza. The information released, including the bodycam footage and Espinoza’s criminal history, provide important context for understanding the situation. However, the independent investigations by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office will be crucial in determining whether the officers’ actions were justified.
The proactive release of information by the Upland Police Department, including the bodycam footage, represents a significant step towards transparency. Addressing public concerns and misinformation directly is essential for maintaining public trust, particularly in cases involving the use of lethal force by law enforcement. The ongoing investigations will undoubtedly shed more light on the incident, and the community awaits the findings with anticipation.
The case of Steven Espinoza underscores the difficult and often split-second decisions law enforcement officers face in the line of duty. It also highlights the importance of comprehensive training, de-escalation techniques, and access to less-lethal options for officers. The incident serves as a reminder of the complex challenges surrounding police use of force and the critical need for transparency and accountability in such cases.
As the investigations progress, the community hopes for a thorough and impartial review of the facts. The outcome of these investigations will not only determine the legality of the officers’ actions but also shape public perception and potentially influence future policies and procedures within the Upland Police Department. The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the inherent risks involved in law enforcement and the importance of continuous efforts to improve training, communication, and de-escalation techniques. The ultimate goal remains to ensure the safety of both the community and the officers who serve to protect it. The hope is that this incident will lead to constructive dialogue and positive changes within the community and the police department.
