Man shot and killed after threatening police with knife, Fresno PD chief says

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- An investigation is underway into a deadly officer-involved shooting in Central Fresno.

The fatal shooting happened Tuesday night near Vassar and San Pablo avenues, north of Fresno City College.

Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer says the suspect shot and killed by officers was strung out and threatened officers with a steak knife. Dyer says the unidentified suspect's family called 911 just before 7 p.m. saying they needed help because the man was high on meth. Dyer says the suspect is a 26-year-old parolee gang member.

Officers sent a K9 unit into the apartment, and when officers found the suspect hiding in a small bedroom they realized the suspect was armed, so they opened fire.

"They were inside of the bedroom probably within three to four feet of the suspect," said Dyer. "The preliminary information that we have is that the suspect, armed with a knife, had raised it over his head in a threatening manner toward the officers."

Dyer says the suspect was high, screaming and possibly hallucinating. His family reported he had not slept for 24 hours. Chief Dyer says they are trying to figure out more about the suspect shot and killed. He did not immediately identify him or say why he was on parole.

Detectives remained on the scene late Tuesday night, collecting evidence and interviewing witnesses.

The two officers who opened fire were placed on paid administrative leave, which is protocol.

This is the third officer-involved shooting in Fresno this year. At this time last year, there were six.