Home / Crime and Justice / Tulare Welfare Check Ends in Fatal Shooting
Tulare Welfare Check Ends in Fatal Shooting
2 Jun
Summary
- Deputies mistook a cell phone for a weapon, leading to fatal shots.
- The man had prior arrests and was found under the influence.
- Investigators found damage and illegal drugs at the scene.
A welfare check on May 20 south of Tulare resulted in the fatal shooting of Michael Pinon, 38, by Tulare County Sheriff's deputies. Newly released video shows deputies drawing their weapons as Pinon raised an object, which was later identified as a cell phone. Deputies perceived this object as a weapon and discharged their firearms, firing a total of three shots.
Investigators reported that Pinon did not have permission to be on the property, which showed signs of forced entry. Illegal drugs were discovered inside the home. Toxicology results indicated Pinon was under the influence of methamphetamine and cocaine during the incident. He had been arrested nine times in the three years preceding the encounter. The California Department of Justice is currently investigating the shooting.
