Lifeguard Kills Drunk-Driving Suspect in Exchange of Gunfire

A Huntington State Beach lifeguard on Tuesday shot and killed a suspected drunk driver who had fired a gun at him, state and local law enforcement officials said.

The incident marked only the second time in California that a state Parks and Recreation Department officer fatally shot a suspect in the line of duty, officials said. The first time was last November at the Lake Perris Recreation Area in Riverside County when a state ranger shot an unarmed auto burglary suspect.

The man killed Tuesday was identified as Nicholas Joseph Caliri Jr., 38, of Montebello. State records show he was convicted of reckless driving in 1986 and of driving under the influence in 1987.

The name of the lifeguard, one of 49 peace officers assigned to the state’s Orange Coast district, was withheld. The district includes Huntington State Beach, Bolsa Chica State Beach and Crystal Cove State Park.

During the day, officials said, the lifeguards, who are armed, remain in uniform but wear swim trunks so they can perform an ocean rescue if necessary. The lifeguards seen in towers and wearing only swimsuits are seasonal workers without peace officer status.

Tuesday’s shooting occurred about 12:25 a.m. at the park’s Newland Street exit to Pacific Coast Highway when the lifeguard stopped Caliri on suspicion of drunk driving and asked for his driver’s license, said Sheriff’s Lt. Richard Olson.

When the lifeguard returned to his vehicle to check for outstanding warrants, Caliri reached inside his car and picked up a handgun, Olson said. He fired at least two shots at the lifeguard, who ducked and returned fire, Olson said.