Monday, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department shared a video of a procession held for a 17-year-veteran killed in a Yucca Valley shooting Sunday.
“A procession for a true hero—,” read the post of the procession video. “We appreciate the outpouring of support and prayers for Sergeant Vaca, his family, and our department.”
Sergeant Dominic Vaca was critically wounded Sunday afternoon after the pursuit of a suspect in Yucca Valley.
The shooting suspect, who has not been identified at the time of this publication, died at the scene of the incident, according to a SBCSD release on the incident.
“During the pursuit, the driver fled on foot into the desert. While searching for the suspect, a deputy, assigned to the Morongo Basin Station was shot,” continued the post. “The suspect shot at the responding deputies and the deputies returned fire. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene and a handgun was located nearby.”
Sgt. Vaca was airlifted from the scene in critical condition and later succumbed to his injuries.
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we report the passing of Sergeant Dominic Vaca, from the Morongo Basin Station,” read SBCSD’s post on Vaca’s passing.. “He served the community with pride and professionalism and will be missed by many.”
The incident is being investigated by detectives from SBCSD’s Specialized Investigations Division.