Names & Details Identified in KFPD Officer Involved Shooting
/Emilio John Cruz Hernandez (Klamath County Sherrif's Office)
Officer Taylor Herbst, Klamath Falls City Police Department (Image by: Chuck Collins)
On the afternoon of November 24, 2017, Klamath Falls Police Department investigated an attempted murder involving shots fired at a residence in the City of Klamath Falls. The investigation developed probable cause to arrest Emilio John Cruz Hernandez for Attempted Murder, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Burglary in the First Degree, Menacing, Assault in the Fourth Degree, and Recklessly Endangering.
Later that evening, around 9:35 p.m, Klamath Falls Police Department Officer Taylor Herbst contacted the suspect while on duty in her marked patrole vehicle. Attempts to take Mr. Hernandez into custody resulted in shots being fired. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. Pursuant to policy in place when law enforcement engage in the use of deadly physical force and death occurs, Officer Herbst was placed on paid administrative leave pending completion of the investigation.
The Oregon State Police has taken the lead on the investigation into the matter. The OSP Forensic Team was called out to process evidence. The gun Hernandez was carrying during the initial contact with KFPD Officer Herbst was recovered at the scene.
The Klamath County District Attorney is working in coordination with the Oregon State Police. Further updates will be provided as available. Media inquiries, if any, should be directed to the Klamath County District Attorney Eve Costello.
Press Release from Eve Costello, Klamath County District Attorney.