Imperial Beach, CA, December 22, 2025
A deputy-involved shooting occurred near the Imperial Beach Pier during the ‘Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea’ event. A man brandished a knife and expressed a desire to be shot, leading deputies to discharge their weapon. The individual was taken to a hospital but later succumbed to his injuries. The SDPD is investigating the incident, and community safety remains a priority.
Imperial Beach, CA
San Diego Police Investigate Deputy-Involved Shooting Near Imperial Beach Pier
Incident Overview
In the heart of Imperial Beach, on December 21, 2025, a deputy-involved shooting unfolded at approximately 1:38 p.m., near the intersection of Evergreen Avenue and Seacoast Drive. The incident is currently under investigation by the San Diego Police Department (SDPD), while the San Diego Sheriff’s Department has stressed that there is no ongoing threat to the community. Residents are advised to steer clear of the area as the investigation proceeds.
Details of the Incident
According to information released by SDPD Lieutenant Lou Maggi, the deputies were responding at the time to the “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” event when they came across a male individual who expressed a desire to be shot and subsequently brandished a knife. Despite repeated requests from deputies to drop the weapon, the individual did not comply. In response to the situation, one deputy discharged their firearm, resulting in the individual being struck at least once. Following the shooting, deputies provided immediate medical assistance, and the individual was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The identities of both the involved deputies and the deceased individual have not yet been released.
Investigation and Community Reassurance
The investigation into this incident falls under the auspices of the 2022 Countywide Memorandum of Agreement, which aims to uphold transparency and independence in cases of officer-involved shootings. The San Diego Sheriff’s Department has made it clear that while the area is temporarily restricted for investigation purposes, there is no ongoing threat to public safety. The focus remains on ensuring the community’s trust and safety as the investigation unfolds.
Imperial Beach: A Community with Deep Roots
Imperial Beach, known for its stunning coastal views and vibrant neighborhood, plays host to numerous cultural gatherings throughout the year, fostering community spirit and economic growth. The “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” is one such event that highlights the importance of celebrating local heritage, drawing both residents and visitors alike. The partnership between local entrepreneurs and law enforcement is vital in ensuring the safety and vibrancy of such events, which contribute significantly to the local economy.
Recent Crime Trends
In recent years, Imperial Beach has witnessed several notable law enforcement events, indicating the challenges facing the community. For instance, in April 2020, a young man was sentenced for a fatal shooting that occurred within the area. Similarly, in September 2025, an individual was arrested on serious charges related to domestic violence. These incidents underline the importance of continued community engagement and proactive measures to foster a safe environment.
Community Impact and Engagement
The implications of police-involved incidents are profound, reverberating through the community and impacting public perceptions. Local residents are encouraged to remain informed and engage with their law enforcement partners to foster a collaborative approach to safety. The ongoing efforts of the Sheriff’s Department reflect a commitment to building strong community relationships while navigating the complexities of modern law enforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the deputy-involved shooting in Imperial Beach?
On December 21, 2025, at approximately 1:38 p.m., a San Diego Sheriff’s deputy-involved shooting occurred near the intersection of Evergreen Avenue and Seacoast Drive in Imperial Beach. The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) is leading the investigation into this incident. The Sheriff’s Department has advised the public to avoid the area, stating there is no immediate danger to the community.
What led to the shooting?
According to SDPD Lieutenant Lou Maggi, deputies were present at the “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” event when they encountered a man who made statements indicating a desire to be shot and subsequently produced a knife. Deputies instructed the man to drop the weapon; however, he did not comply. In response, one deputy discharged their firearm, striking the man at least once. Deputies administered emergency medical aid, and the man was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The identities of the involved deputies and the deceased have not been released.
Who is conducting the investigation?
As per the 2022 Countywide Memorandum of Agreement, the SDPD is conducting the investigation to ensure transparency and independence in officer-involved shootings. The Sheriff’s Department has emphasized that there is no ongoing threat to the public and has requested that individuals avoid the area during the investigation.
What is the “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” event?
The “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” is an annual event celebrating Native American heritage, attracting both local residents and visitors. The Sheriff’s Department provides law enforcement services to Imperial Beach, as well as other incorporated cities within the county.
Has Imperial Beach experienced similar incidents in the past?
In recent years, Imperial Beach has experienced several significant law enforcement events. For instance, in April 2020, a 19-year-old man was sentenced to six years in state prison for the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old in Imperial Beach. Additionally, in September 2025, a man was arrested on suspicion of stabbing his wife during an argument and assaulting his child in Imperial Beach.
How can residents stay informed about such incidents?
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and cooperate with authorities during investigations. The Sheriff’s Department continues to work towards ensuring public safety and maintaining trust within the community.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Intersection of Evergreen Avenue and Seacoast Drive, Imperial Beach, CA |
| Date and Time | December 21, 2025, at approximately 1:38 p.m. |
| Involved Parties | San Diego Sheriff’s deputies and an unidentified man |
| Event Context | “Christmas Pow Wow by the Sea” cultural event |
| Investigation Lead | San Diego Police Department (SDPD) |
| Public Advisory | Avoid the area; no immediate danger to the community |
Now Happening on X
- @SDSheriff (December 21, 2025, 3:17 PM) San Diego Sheriff’s Department advises residents of Imperial Beach to be aware of increased law enforcement activity following a deputy-involved shooting near Evergreen Avenue and Seacoast Drive, urging the public to avoid the area as there is no danger to the community. View on X
- @SDNVtv (December 21, 2025, 2:45 PM) A man in his 40s was wounded in a deputy-involved shooting near the Imperial Beach Pier around 1:40 PM, transported to UCSD Hillcrest in CPR status with multiple gunshot wounds; no deputies were injured and the area is closed off. View on X
- @10News (December 22, 2025, 2:30 AM) Increased law enforcement presence in Imperial Beach stems from an investigation into a deputy-involved shooting that occurred Sunday afternoon. View on X
- @sdut (December 22, 2025, 4:39 AM) A Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot a man near an Imperial Beach gathering. View on X
- @TimesNow (December 22, 2025, 1:56 AM) Heavy police presence near Evergreen Avenue in Imperial Beach after San Diego deputies opened fire on a man. View on X
- @SideoTV (December 22, 2025, 6:53 AM) The San Diego Police Department is investigating a deputy-involved shooting in Imperial Beach that occurred on Sunday afternoon, with scene processing expected to continue for several hours. View on X
- @619SDLD (December 22, 2025, 2:24 AM) A San Diego County sheriff’s deputy shot a man near an outdoor market in Imperial Beach; witnesses reported the man lunged at deputies with a small obsidian knife before being shot multiple times, and authorities are investigating. View on X
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