California Police Fatally Shoot Armed Murder Suspect After Wild Gunfight Outside In-N-Out Restaurant
ONTARIO, Calif. — A 31-year-old man wanted in connection with a carjacking and murder was shot and killed by police in a dramatic late-night shootout outside an In-N-Out restaurant in Southern California, authorities confirmed.
According to investigators, police were alerted by license plate readers to a vehicle tied to a violent crime earlier in the week. When officers attempted to stop the car, the suspect — identified as Andre Matijasevic — refused to pull over, triggering a dangerous confrontation near a busy commercial area.
Suspect Opened Fire on Police Near Crowded Restaurant
Authorities said Matijasevic exited the vehicle and began firing multiple rounds at officers and their patrol cars. The exchange of gunfire occurred in front of an open In-N-Out restaurant along a well-trafficked road.
Witnesses reported chaos as the suspect ran toward the fast-food restaurant, which still had customers and staff inside at the time of the incident.
“Officers immediately took cover and returned fire as the suspect advanced toward the building,” officials said in a preliminary statement. “Their quick response likely prevented a much larger tragedy.”
Gunfire Erupts as Officers Return Fire
Police said Matijasevic continued firing while retreating toward the restaurant entrance before he fell to the ground, still shooting in the direction of officers.
Officers then moved in, securing the area and providing medical assistance until paramedics arrived. Matijasevic was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Authorities said no officers or civilians were injured in the exchange. The In-N-Out restaurant was temporarily closed as detectives processed the scene and collected ballistic evidence.
Investigation Underway
The California Department of Justice has opened a review into the incident, standard protocol for officer-involved shootings in the state. Investigators are also working to confirm Matijasevic’s suspected involvement in the earlier carjacking and homicide that triggered the alert.
Officials said footage from dash and body cameras will be reviewed as part of the investigation to determine the full sequence of events.
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