UPDATE: A man accused of murdering San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nunez has pleaded not guilty during his first court appearance, intensifying the urgency surrounding this tragic case. Angelo Jose Saldivar, aged 47, appeared in a wheelchair with a back brace on Wednesday morning in Rancho Cucamonga, California, where he faced a total of 10 charges including murder and attempted kidnapping.
This shocking incident unfolded last week when Deputy Nunez responded to a domestic violence call. According to authorities, Saldivar allegedly opened fire during a violent confrontation with his ex-wife, prompting the deputy to intervene. District Attorney Jason Anderson confirmed that the charges against Saldivar include a murder charge with special circumstances for killing a peace officer in the line of duty.
The courtroom was filled with tension as Saldivar, who had his arraignment postponed for medical reasons, entered his plea to a series of serious charges. These also include false imprisonment and four counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Anderson revealed that several of the victims were bystanders who had called 911, with some recordings capturing the gunfire that erupted.
In a dramatic twist, after the shooting, Saldivar attempted to flee on a motorcycle, leading deputies on a high-speed chase along the 210 Freeway. He was ultimately stopped after crashing, thanks to an off-duty narcotics deputy who intervened.
Saldivar is currently being held without bail and is set to return to court for a preliminary hearing next week. The community remains in mourning as funeral arrangements are being planned for Deputy Nunez, a dedicated officer who served for six years and is survived by his wife, their two-year-old daughter, and an unborn child.
San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus stated, “We know the public wants to be involved in this, and we are going to try and make all those considerations, obviously taking what the family wants.” The emotional impact of this tragedy is felt deeply, with many in the community rallying to honor Nunez’s sacrifice.
As the case develops, all eyes will be on the upcoming court proceedings, with many eager for justice for Deputy Nunez and his grieving family. The atmosphere remains charged with urgency as the legal process unfolds, keeping the community and law enforcement on high alert. Stay tuned for live updates as this story continues to develop.
