The Bakersfield Police Department has provided an update on today’s officer-involved shooting. Around 2:24 a.m. on January 18, 2024, BPD received a Shot Spotter alert for one round fired in the 1300 block of Chester Avenue. Officers responded to the scene and encountered an armed suspect in a vehicle.

According to BPD, the suspect fired at officers leading to an officer-involved shooting. A witness reportedly informed officers that the suspect had been in possession of an object that looked like a grenade or explosive device. Officers requested additional resources to deal with the possible explosive.

A robot and a drone were used to ensure the scene was safe before officers approached the suspect vehicle. The suspect passed away at the scene. The Kern County Coroner’s Office will release the identity of the suspect at a later time. As the investigation continues, Chester Avenue between California Avenue and Truxtun Avenue will be closed for several hours.