On Saturday evening, a tragic event unfolded in Los Angeles County as Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer of the Sheriff’s Department was fatally shot in an ambush outside the Palmdale sheriff’s station. The exact details leading up to the deadly incident remain under investigation; however, it has been confirmed that the attack occurred before 6 p.m., with Clinkunbroomer found gravely injured at the steering wheel of his patrol car.
Sheriff Robert Luna sorrowfully announced the loss of the 30-year-old deputy, who was quickly transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. At the time of reporting, no details were available regarding the assailant. “Rest assured, we will find the person responsible for this heinous act,” Sheriff Luna affirmed during a late-night press conference, adding that every resource at the department’s disposal would be utilized to pursue justice.
Investigators currently scrutinize surveillance footage from the scene; preliminary observations indicate a dark-colored sedan slowly approaching an LASD vehicle around the time of the shooting before rapidly fleeing the scene. Sheriff Luna implored the community to come forward with any information, emphasizing the urgency of removing the perpetrator from the streets.
Deputy Clinkunbroomer was not just an officer but a valued member of the LASD family, continuing a legacy started by his father and grandfather before him. Having served with the department for nearly eight years, he transferred to the Palmdale station in July 2018 and took on the critical role of a field training officer almost two years ago. “This position is reserved for the best among us,” Luna noted, highlighting the significant loss experienced by the department.
Moreover, the tragic incident comes just days after Deputy Clinkunbroomer’s engagement. Overcome with emotion, Sheriff Luna extended heartfelt condolences to the young officer’s fiancée and his parents and grandparents who survived him, stating, “Our deepest sympathies are with his loved ones during this challenging time.”
As the investigation continued, with many unanswered questions, Luna urged patience, assuring the public that updates would be shared in due course. In the meantime, a large perimeter surrounding the street outside the sheriff’s station remained cordoned off as part of the active crime scene, a sad reminder of the tragic event that transpired there. An LASD vehicle was also marked off near the Antelope Valley Medical Center, where Deputy Clinkunbroomer was rushed after the shooting.
