Bakersfield, CA – The Bakersfield Police Department has made public the body camera video of an officer-involved shooting that occurred on January 18th, resulting in the death of Alejandro Avalos, a Washington man. Chief of Police Greg Terry emphasized the department’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating, “The public has a legitimate interest in obtaining timely and accurate information about police shootings, and the Bakersfield Police Department is committed to making that information available.”

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On the early morning of January 18th, 2024, at approximately 2:24 a.m., the Bakersfield Police Department received an activation from ShotSpotter, indicating one round fired in the 1300 block of Chester Avenue. Upon arrival, officers encountered an armed suspect inside a vehicle. The suspect fired at the officers, leading to an officer-involved shooting, as confirmed by the police.

Footage from the body-worn cameras reveals two separate incidents of police shooting during the confrontation. Additionally, a witness alerted the officers that the suspect was in possession of an object resembling a grenade or explosive device. Concerned about the suspect’s armament and the potential threat of an explosive, the officers requested support from additional resources, including the Bakersfield Police Department Bomb Squad and two armored vehicles provided by the Kern County Sheriff’s Department.

Ensuring the safety of all involved, law enforcement used a robot and drone to thoroughly inspect the scene and confirm its security before approaching the suspect’s vehicle. Sadly, the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene. Further investigation discovered a rifle and 24 fired shell casings inside the vehicle.

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The Bakersfield Police Department has identified the suspect as Esmeraldo Martinez Vivanco; however, the coroner’s office has confirmed his identity as 46-year-old Alejandro Avalos from Vancouver, Washington. It was revealed that Avalos had multiple aliases, but his true identity was confirmed through fingerprints by the FBI and DEA.

The release of the body camera footage aims to provide the community with a firsthand look at the incident, reflecting the police department’s commitment to transparency in critical incidents. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue to gather evidence and information related to this tragic event.

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