California Department of Justice Clears Detective in Fatal Shooting of Innocent Bystander

Fatal Shooting of Pedro “Pee Wee” Lopez in Norwalk

The California Department of Justice (DOJ) has determined that no law enforcement officers will face charges in the fatal shooting of an innocent bystander during a gun battle with a carjacking suspect in Norwalk.

Background of the Incident

Pedro “Pee Wee” Lopez was killed on February 17, 2022, as deputies with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department were pursuing Andre Mora, who was wanted for a carjacking and assault three days earlier, authorities said.

Gun Battle and Fatal Shooting

Mora had already exchanged fire with detectives when he ran into Lopez’s yard on Foster Road at around 7 p.m. that evening, the DOJ explained in its report, released on Thursday. “Mora ran into the front yard of a private residence and then into a narrow side yard crowded with various objects,” investigators said. “Mr. Mora then pointed a handgun at the detective, who fired fourteen rounds.”

The object-filled side yard of Pedro Lopez is seen on February 17, 2022. (California DOJ)

Investigation and Conclusion

Mora was shot multiple times but survived. He stumbled into the home, where he was barricaded for several hours until deputies rushed in and took him into custody. They found Lopez, 67, dead in the side yard from a single gunshot to the head that, according to investigators, came from the detective’s service weapon.

Because it was dark and the side yard was so crowded with objects, including bikes, tools, clothing, and a toilet, the DOJ said the detective likely “had no ability” to know Lopez was there.

“Based on the investigation and review of evidence, along with the applicable statutes, legal principles, and subsequent analysis, there is insufficient evidence to support a criminal prosecution of [the detectives],” the department concluded. “As such, no further action will be taken in this case.”

Community Response

Neighbors told KTLA that Lopez was a beloved fixture in the community. He was known as the “topless neighborhood watchman” because he would often guard the area without wearing a shirt.

Recommendations

In its report, the DOJ recommended that LASD issue body-worn cameras to all deputies, including plainclothes deputies. “It is also recommended that LASD develop policies on the circumstances in which deputies, who are in plain clothes or otherwise not in uniform, can and must activate BWCs,” the report said.

Conclusion

The California Department of Justice has determined that the fatal shooting of Pedro “Pee Wee” Lopez was an unfortunate incident that was the result of a series of unfortunate circumstances. While the decision not to charge the detective may be difficult for some to accept, the DOJ’s investigation and conclusion are based on the evidence and applicable laws.

FAQs

* What was the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of Pedro “Pee Wee” Lopez?
+ Lopez was killed during a gun battle between detectives and a carjacking suspect, Andre Mora, in his side yard.
* Why was the detective not charged in the shooting?
+ The California Department of Justice determined that the detective had no ability to know that Lopez was in the side yard, and therefore, it was an accident.
* What were the recommendations made by the DOJ?
+ The DOJ recommended that LASD issue body-worn cameras to all deputies, including plainclothes deputies, and develop policies on when they must be activated.