The California Department of Justice has released a report on the officer-involved shooting that resulted in the death of Roberto Corchado, Jr. in Fresno on March 4, 2023. The incident involved an officer from the Fresno Police Department and was investigated under Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), which mandates state review of all fatal police shootings involving unarmed civilians.
According to the report, officers identified Corchado as a wanted suspect with outstanding arrest warrants and attempted to stop his vehicle. Corchado did not comply, drove recklessly, and collided with two vehicles while entering Highway 41 northbound via an exit ramp at East Shaw Avenue. Officers pursued him using patrol cars and coordinated with an FPD helicopter. After disabling Corchado’s vehicle with a Pursuit Intervention Technique maneuver, officers reported that Corchado fired a handgun at them from inside his car, injuring one officer. Officers returned fire and took cover behind their patrol vehicle.
Corchado then fled on foot toward another motorist. An officer pursued him and fired, striking Corchado. A firearm was found next to the open driver’s side door of Corchado’s vehicle.
The Department of Justice concluded there was insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the officer acted without intent to defend himself or others from what he reasonably believed was an imminent threat of death or serious injury. As a result, no criminal charges will be filed against the officer involved.
Attorney General Rob Bonta stated: “I sincerely hope that this report provides the valuable insights and information that the community has been seeking. AB 1506 is a critical transparency and accountability tool, and our hope is that this report provides understanding that advances towards a safer California for all. Together, we aim to foster a system that not only protects the rights of individuals but also promotes trust and accountability between law enforcement and our communities. We appreciate the law enforcement personnel who put their lives on the line in the name of public safety. At the same time, we recognize that loss of life is always a tragedy, and we express our condolences to Mr. Corchado’s family.”
The DOJ reviewed investigation files, available multimedia evidence, as well as Fresno Police Department policies and training materials before reaching its conclusions. The Police Practices Section determined there were no recommendations warranted for this case.
A copy of the full report is available online.
