17-year-old boy killed in officer-involved shooting in Woodville
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A 17-year-old is dead following an officer-involved shooting in Woodville.
At around 8 p.m., deputies say they responded to a family disturbance call at a home on Road 168 and Avenue 167.
Tulare Sheriff's deputies say family members reported their son was under the influence of drugs and was threatening to kill them. Some of them managed to lock themselves in the bathroom.
When authorities arrived they found the teen with a knife then the situation escalated. He took an 11-year-old hostage believed to be his family member.
"They observed a 17-year old male with a knife they attempted to dialogue with him. At some point he took an 11-year old family member hostage. Unfortunately deputies were forced to take action and shots were fired inside the residence," said Captain Mike Watson.
It is unclear how many times the teen was hit. No one else was hurt.
It is unknown what was in the teen's system.
Family members reported to deputies they believed the teen smoked what they described as "dope."
The sheriff's office says Porterville police are taking over the investigation.
"I immediately responded last night to the scene and spoke with the officer who was being treated by medical responders. I have also viewed the body camera video. This officer absolutely saved the life of the 11-year-old boy who was being held at knifepoint by his own brother," said Sheriff Bourdeaux in a written statement.
"This was a life-threatening and quickly collapsing situation that the officer did not create. The violent suspect in this situation forced the officer to take the action, which no doubt saved the life of the victim," Bourdeaux said. "My heart is devastated for the family who is having to live out this absolute nightmare, as well as our Deputy who will certainly carry the events of last night with him for the rest of his life."
