Friends, colleagues remember Baldwin Park police officer killed in shootout

Police officer, Samuel Riveros, killed in shooting

Officer Samuel Riveros was killed in a shooting in Baldwin Park.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY, Calif. - A police officer and a civilian are both dead and a second cop hurt after a series of shootings in Baldwin Park.

What we know:

SkyFOX was over the heavy police presence in the 4200 block of Filhurst Avenue in Baldwin Park around 7:15 p.m. on May 31.

According to Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna, Baldwin Park police were responding to an alleged murder in the area.

The police response led to the Baldwin Park officer, identified as Samuel Riveros, being killed by the alleged gunman they were looking for.

Samuel Riveros. PHOTO: Baldwin Park Police Department

The second police officer, Anthony Pimentel was treated and the hospital and has since been released.

Baldwin Park cop, innocent civilian killed in shootout

The innocent civilian was heading to a relative's home for a party when they were shot, police said. Baldwin Park police officer Samuel Riveros was shot and killed while responding to the incident.

According to authorities, 22-year-old Eduardo Roberto Medina-Berumen was arrested at the scene. He was booked on suspicion of two counts of murder. 

He is currently in stable condition at a hospital pending transfer to jail. His bail is set at $4 million.

Luna said Medina-Berumen is believed to have killed the civilian prior to allegedly shooting the Baldwin Park police officer to death.

What we don't know:

It is also unknown what prompted the shootings to take place.

The identity of the civilian who was shot and killed has not been released.

It is unknown if Medina-Berumen is linked to other crimes.

What they're saying:

LASD issued the following statement on June 1 in response to the deadly shooting of the Baldwin Park police officer:

"This is a heartbreaking and deeply devastating tragedy. Officer Riveros made the ultimate sacrifice in service to his community. He, along with Officer Pimentel and their fellow officers, bravely responded to a dangerous call, fully aware of the risks involved. Officer Riveros gave his life in service to others, a profound testament to his unwavering dedication to duty and selfless courage.

His loss is profoundly felt—not only by his family and colleagues, but by the entire Baldwin Park community and law enforcement family.

The death of an innocent civilian only deepens this tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to the victim’s loved ones as they endure unimaginable grief.

This incident is a sobering reminder of the grave and unpredictable dangers law enforcement officers confront every day. Despite these risks, they continue to put their lives on the line to protect our communities."