May 10, 2023 - San Bernardino County Sheriff Department officials report that on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 3:27 p.m., deputies from the Apple Valley Station responded to calls for service regarding a male subject, later identified as Lee Cortez, who was walking along Bear Valley Road.  Cortez was armed with a knife, bleeding from his neck and walked in and out of traffic lanes. 

Deputies arrived at the area and approached Cortez who was still armed with the knife.  Deputies gave Cortez several commands to drop the weapon, but Cortez refused.  When Cortez advanced towards the deputies, a taser was deployed but proved to be ineffective.  Cortez continued advancing with the knife raised towards the deputies and a lethal force encounter occurred.  Cortez was struck by gunfire and transported to the hospital where he was pronounced deceased.  

Detectives from the Specialized Investigations Division responded and assumed the investigation.  No further details are available for release.  

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Detective Bilbao at 909-890-4904.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous should contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or go to www.wetip.com

DATE/TIME:  May 8, 2023 / 3:27 p.m.

INCIDENT:   Lethal Force Encounter, PC 664/187 - Attempt Murder

LOCATION:  Bear Valley Road and Navajo Road, Apple Valley

SUSPECT(S): Lee Cortez, 42-years-old, Male Resident of Apple Valley

VICTIM(S):  Confidential

Refer:  Detective A. Bilbao

Station: Specialized Investigations Division

Phone No. 909-890-4904

Case No.   DR 182302215  H# 2023-051

Source: San Bernardino County Sheriff Department