(Photo courtesy: Kern County 999 Foundation)
(KMJ) – The Kern County 999 Foundation has identified the Kern County Sheriff’s SWAT Deputy killed in a shootout Sunday afternoon in Wasco. It took to its Facebook page to write:
The Kern County 999 Foundation family would like to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and fellow deputies of the Kern County SWAT Deputy Phillip Campas #1392, who was killed in the line of duty.
Law enforcement were called to a home on the 100 block of First Street and Poplar Avenue in Wasco around 1 p.m. Kern County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Joel Swanson says Campas and another deputy were shot by a yet-to-be identified suspect as they tried to make entry into the home. Campas was killed and the other Deputy, who has yet to be named, was rushed to the hospital for treatment of moderate injuries.
The suspect was then shot by law enforcement in a second exchange of gunfire. Several published reports out of the South Valley say he has since died from his wounds, but that has yet to be confirmed by law enforcement. And, at least two other people were said to be shot inside the home as well. No update has been given on their conditions.
Following this shooting, Wasco Mayor Alex Garcia issued this statement:
“Although this remains an ongoing situation, at this time I would like share that my heart goes out to the families of both the deputies. Nothing can prepare us for tragedies such as these. In an instant our lives can change forever. I pray that God surrounds these families with his love and give them the strength to make it through this devastating time. I would also like to take the time to thank all our brothers and sisters in the law enforcement & first responder community who valiantly put their lives on the line every day to protect our residents. I cannot thank you enough for the work you do. May God bless you all!”
