On March 21, 2025, at around 8:03 p.m., a vehicle burglary was reported in the 100 block of Walnut Street, Needles. The resident discovered the suspect inside his vehicle, prompting the suspect to flee on foot.
Two deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Needles Station responded and identified Michael Ray Richard, II, a 39-year-old male from Phoenix, Arizona. As they attempted to detain him, Richard resisted and ran away. During the pursuit, he retrieved a bag he had been carrying earlier. Upon catching up with him again, deputies found Richard armed with a handgun. A struggle ensued during which Richard fired the gun. Deputies then engaged in a lethal force encounter resulting in Richard being struck by gunfire and pronounced dead at the scene. One deputy sustained minor injuries.
Detectives from the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division took over the investigation and found another firearm in Richard’s bag.
Detective Antonio Alcala is leading the investigation and can be contacted at (909) 890-4904 for any information related to this case. Anonymous tips can also be provided through We-Tip at 800-78CRIME or www.wetip.com.
Sheriff-Coroner Shannon D. Dicus oversees the San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department.
