A traffic stop in the East Bay suburb of Brentwood turned fatal late Christmas Eve after a police officer shot and killed a driver who allegedly reached for a loaded rifle. The incident occurred around 10:55 p.m. on Wednesday near the intersection of Balfour Road and Foothill Drive.
According to the Brentwood Police Department, officers pulled over the vehicle on suspicion of driving under the influence. The driver, described as a man in his 40s who was traveling alone, was contacted by officers at the scene. During the encounter, police developed probable cause to search the vehicle, subsequently discovering a loaded, high-powered rifle inside.
Authorities report that when officers attempted to place the man under arrest, he physically resisted and ignored verbal commands. The situation escalated when the man reportedly grabbed the rifle, prompting one officer to discharge their weapon. Despite receiving emergency medical aid from officers and arriving paramedics, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
No officers were seriously injured during the confrontation. In accordance with standard protocol for fatal law enforcement encounters, both the Brentwood Police Department and the Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office have launched parallel investigations. The department has committed to releasing body-worn and in-car camera footage once the legal review process allows. The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of his next of kin.
