Gunman, 22, Shot to Death After Firing at Deputy, Authorities Say

A 22-year-old man who shot at a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy early Monday was killed when the deputy returned fire, authorities said.

The 1:15 a.m. gun battle occurred near the intersection of Peck Road and Durfee Avenue in South El Monte, Deputy Carrie Stuart said. The deputy, a nine-year veteran whose name was not released, was on patrol and had stopped to use a pay phone near a bar when he was approached by the shooter.

Just after the deputy hung up, the 22-year-old man abruptly drew a gun and began shooting, Stuart said. The deputy fired back. The shooter fled and the deputy chased him on foot. As they exchanged gunfire again, the deputy twice hit the 22-year-old in the lower body.

The injured man was taken to County-USC Medical Center, where he died two hours later. His name was not released pending notification of his family. The deputy was not injured, Stuart said.

An investigation is continuing.