East SBV Times

A 15-year-old male, identified as Ryan Gainer, from Apple Valley, was involved in a lethal force encounter with deputies from the Apple Valley Police Department. The incident took place on March 9, 2024, at a residence in the 13400 block of Iroquois Road.

According to reports, Gainer was actively assaulting family members and damaging property at the residence. The confrontation escalated when Gainer, armed with a garden tool, ran towards the deputy without provocation. The deputy, in self-defense, fired his weapon, striking Gainer.

"A lethal force encounter occurred, and Gainer was struck by gunfire," stated the authorities. Despite receiving immediate medical aid from the deputies, Gainer succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a local hospital.

Following the incident, detectives from the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division have taken over the investigation. They have urged anyone with information regarding the case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department has provided contact information for individuals willing to provide information: Detective Shawn Thurman or Sergeant Justin Giles can be reached at (909) 890-4904. Callers can choose to remain anonymous by contacting We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or visiting www.wetip.com.

The circumstances surrounding the lethal force encounter are currently under investigation, and further details are expected to be revealed as the case progresses.