Urgent Standoff in Redwood City Ends in Gunfire, Man Dies

UPDATE: A dramatic standoff in Redwood City, California, ended in tragedy as police shot a man who later died at a hospital. The incident unfolded on October 3, 2023, just after 2:30 p.m., when officers responded to reports of a man firing a gun on the 200 block of Hazel Avenue.

Authorities have identified the deceased as 48-year-old Jose Reynaldo Lombera. Witnesses described a chaotic scene, where the quiet afternoon shifted to sirens and gunfire as police established a perimeter and employed drones to locate Lombera.

As officers approached, Lombera allegedly pointed a firearm at them, prompting the use of both less-lethal and lethal munitions. He was struck and provided immediate medical attention before being transported to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

No other injuries were reported, but the incident has left the community shaken. Neighbors recounted the eerie shift from a peaceful day to a scene filled with police activity and the sound of shots fired. One neighbor noted, “It was surreal to see someone taken away on a gurney.”

The San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office is now leading an investigation into the shooting, working alongside the San Mateo County Coroner’s Office and the Redwood City Police Department. This investigation is critical, as officer-involved shootings in the area typically undergo rigorous independent reviews. In a similar case in 2022, no charges were filed against officers involved.

The Redwood City Police Department has placed the officers directly involved on administrative leave as the investigation unfolds. Officials are urging anyone with information on the incident to contact the police tip line at (650) 780-7110 or the DA’s office at (650) 363-4636.

More details will emerge as the investigation continues, and the community awaits answers on this tragic event that has deeply impacted residents.