East SBV Times

On May 28, 2024, a lethal force encounter occurred after Brent Phillip Soster, a 43-year-old resident of Twentynine Palms and murder suspect, opened fire on deputies in the Twentynine Palms area. The incident began when the Mohave County Arizona Sheriff’s Department alerted the Colorado River Station about Soster's presence in the Needles area.

At approximately 9:26 p.m., deputies located Soster’s 2005 Dodge pickup truck on Highway 95 near mile marker 30. When deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop, Soster fled, leading to a pursuit towards Joshua Tree. During the chase on Highway 62, Soster threw a smoke grenade from his vehicle and began firing at pursuing deputies. The Sheriff’s Aviation Division joined the pursuit, during which Soster also fired at the helicopter.

A lethal force encounter ensued, and deputies subsequently apprehended Soster without further incident. He was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment of lacerations sustained during the incident. After being discharged from the hospital, he was booked at the West Valley Detention Center for attempted murder.

Detectives from the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded to the scene and took over the investigation. A search of Soster’s vehicle revealed several firearms, a tactical ballistic vest, a gas mask, additional smoke grenades, and several rounds of ammunition.

Authorities are seeking any information related to this case. Individuals can contact Deputy Joshua Young from the Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 890-4904 or remain anonymous by contacting We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.

Refer: Deputy Joshua Young or Sergeant Gerardo Moreno

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No.: (909) 890-4904

Case No.: DR#102400134 / H#2024-048

Shannon D. Dicus

Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department