Missing woman safe after husband killed by Madera County deputy

MADERA COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- A missing woman was found safe late Monday night.

The Madera County Sheriff's Office says 43-year-old Claudia Anguiano had last been seen in Whittier on June 15th.

"It was a priority to locate her. We did speak with her and she is safe," Sheriff Tyson Pogue said.

She's the wife of 42-year-old Gregory Anguiano, who was shot and killed by a deputy on Friday.

On Monday, Sheriff Pogue explained that he has a lengthy criminal history.

"He has a conviction for battery on a peace officer as well as domestic violence. Additionally, he's been arrested several times for burglary, resisting arrest, and false identity to a peace officer," he explained.

Authorities say that on Friday afternoon, Gregory was burglarizing a home near Avenue 12 west of Madera Ranchos, then charging at cars with a crowbar through the area.

Sheriff Pogue says when a deputy arrived and tried to contact Gregory, he became combative, took the deputy's taser and turned it on her.

Officials say several good Samaritans came to help the deputy.

"I think all the deputies and the department as a whole is so grateful that they stepped in," Sheriff Pogue stated. "Their selfless actions and courageous actions that day is really a reflection of the best Madera County has to offer."

Authorities say Gregory kept fighting, even trying to take the deputy's gun, but she opened fire and killed him.

The deputy is on paid administrative leave per the department's protocol.

"Our deputy is recovering both physically and emotionally from an extremely traumatic and violent encounter. She has the full weight of the department behind her," Sheriff Pogue said.

Sheriff Pogue says the deputy has resources available to her, including peer support, counseling services, and more to help her recover.

The California Department of Justice continues to investigate the shooting and may provide changes to procedures if necessary.

The sheriff's office is not releasing Claudia's location out of respect for her privacy.

If you are the victim of domestic abuse, or you know someone who is, there is help available 24/7. In Fresno County, call the Marjaree Mason Center at (559) 233-4357. In all other locations, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 799-7233.

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