Escondido Police Officer Involved Shooting of Antonio Rosales

Dec 5, 2024
On the evening of Oct. 2, 2024, a 911 caller reported that a male had pointed a handgun at her at the Escondido Transit Center at 700 W. Grand Avenue. When officers arrived, she pointed out a male who immediately ran from officers. During the foot chase onto a nearby bike path, an officer saw the male manipulating something in his hand. The male then turned with what the officer believed to be a handgun. Fearing the male was preparing to shoot him, the officer fired at the man, striking him several times.

Officers began life-saving measures and the male, identified as 34-year-old Antonio Rosales, was taken to an area hospital where he continues to receive care for his injuries. Rosales faces charges of assault on an officer. The weapon he was carrying was a Crossman-brand BB pistol which is identical in appearance to a 38-caliber revolver, including cartridges made to resemble actual bullets that hold BBs or pellets. The police officer involved in this shooting is 3-year veteran Corey Montross.

In accordance with a countywide protocol on officer-involved shootings, this incident is being investigated by the San Diego Police Department. The investigative process also includes an independent review by the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI to determine if the officers’ actions are reasonable under the law. All documents associated with this case will become available to the public once the investigation is complete.