Menifee police safely detain man after negotiations

By Doug Spoon, Editor

Menifee Police Department officers safely took a male into custody after several hours of dialogue early this morning, authorities said.

Menifee PD dispatch received a report of an adult male in crisis at 12:14 a.m. near the 26800 block of Newport Road, according to a news release. The initial report indicated that an armed man was seen in the grassy area behind businesses at 26875 Newport Road. Officers located the individual and observed that he was armed with a handgun. It was determined that he posed a threat only to himself.

Officers from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Murrieta Police Department assisted Menifee PD officers in establishing a safety perimeter and communicating with the individual. A Sheriff’s Department helicopter provided aerial support and remained on site until about 2:15 a.m. Members of the Menifee PD crisis negotiation team arrived and ultimately helped safety detain the man.

Officers remained on site until about 5:20 a.m., according to Captain Dave Gutierrez. It was determined that the individual acted alone. He was taken for a medical evaluation. Criminal charges are pending.

“Menifee PD would like to recognize all personnel involved for their professionalism and restraint during this high-risk and complex situation,” a statement said. “With the invaluable support of our allied agencies, we were able to achieve a safe outcome for everyone involved. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, the individual’s identity will not be released at this time.”