The California Department of Justice has released a report concerning the officer-involved shooting of Victor Marquez in Tulare County, near Exeter, California. The incident, which occurred on December 17, 2022, involved officers from the Woodlake Police Department (WPD). This report is part of ongoing efforts by the DOJ to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.
Attorney General Rob Bonta stated, “We recognize the considerable challenges and difficulties faced by all those impacted, including Mr. Marquez’s family, the law enforcement agencies involved, and the community as a whole.” He emphasized that the DOJ aims to collaborate with law enforcement to create a just legal environment.
The incident began when WPD officers received information via radio dispatch about a domestic violence suspect armed with a firearm. A high-speed pursuit ensued after officers located Marquez's vehicle. The chase ended when Marquez's vehicle collided with two others. Officers reported that Marquez appeared to be holding a firearm in a small black bag and raised it at them. Two WPD officers discharged their weapons, resulting in Marquez's death. It was later discovered that no firearms were present in his vehicle.
Under Assembly Bill 1506 (AB 1506), which mandates investigations into officer-involved shootings resulting in the death of unarmed civilians, the DOJ conducted an investigation and found insufficient evidence for criminal charges against the officers involved.
The DOJ made five policy recommendations for WPD following this incident:
1. Revise body-worn camera policies to require activation.
2. Consider installing digital in-car video systems.
3. Ensure officers have access to less lethal options beyond TASERS.
4. Simplify criteria for engaging or terminating vehicle pursuits.
5. Clarify de-escalation policy language per Government Code requirements.
A copy of the full report is available online.