March 27, 2024 - San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at approximately 9:50 p.m., a deputy with the Hesperia Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Keith Vinyard. Vinyard had an outstanding felony domestic violence warrant for his arrest and failed to yield. Vinyard fled from deputies, driving recklessly at a high rate of speed. At the end of the pursuit, Vinyard refused to comply with commands and threatened to shoot the deputy. As additional deputies arrived, Vinyard armed himself with a large metal object and a lethal force encounter occurred. Vinyard was struck by gunfire. Deputies provided medical aid until emergency medical personnel arrived. Vinyard was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division responded and collaborated with the Department of Justice during the initial phases of the investigation. Pursuant to Assembly Bill 1506, the Department of Justice (DOJ) is conducting the investigation. Inquiries regarding this incident should be directed to DOJ at AGPressOffice@doj.ca.gov or (916) 210-6000.  

DATE/TIME: March 23, 2024, 9:50 p.m.

INCIDENT: Assault on a Peace Officer
                   Lethal Force Encounter

LOCATION: Desert Area Southeast of the 15400 block of Halinor Street, Hesperia

SUSPECT(S): Keith Vinyard, 52-year-old Resident of Hesperia

VICTIM(S): San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputies 

Case No. DR#192402073 / H#2024-025

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department