Spring Valley, California, January 30, 2026
A police shooting occurred in Spring Valley after a pursuit of a stolen vehicle, resulting in the suspect being hospitalized with a leg injury. The incident began when officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Edwaun Walter Thames, who fled and crashed the car. Following the crash, officers observed what appeared to be a firearm near Thames, prompting an officer to discharge his weapon. The investigation is being led by the San Diego Police Department, with oversight from multiple agencies.
Spring Valley Police Shooting: One Hospitalized After Pursuit
Spring Valley, California – A police shooting occurred in Spring Valley on Thursday evening, resulting in one person being hospitalized. The incident unfolded after a pursuit that ended with the suspect being shot in the leg. The Chula Vista Police Department reported that the pursuit concluded at Tyler Street, but the exact starting point remains unconfirmed. No officers were injured during the incident. The San Diego Police Department is leading the investigation into the shooting. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Details of the Incident
According to the Chula Vista Police Department, the pursuit began when officers attempted to stop a vehicle in the vicinity of Euclid and Imperial avenues. The driver, later identified as Edwaun Walter Thames, 39, refused to yield and fled eastward. The chase continued until Thames lost control of the stolen vehicle, crashing it near the intersection of Gillespie Drive and Jamacha Road. After the crash, Thames exited the vehicle and was ordered by officers to lie face down on the street. During this time, an item that appeared to be a firearm was observed near him. Thames allegedly reached toward the item, prompting Officer Henry Ingram Jr. to discharge his service weapon, striking Thames in the leg. Officers immediately provided medical assistance until paramedics arrived, and Thames was transported to a local hospital for treatment. He has since been released from medical care and booked on suspicion of several felony charges, including auto theft, possessing a stolen vehicle, and felony evasion of police. Officer Ingram has been with the San Diego Police Department for approximately two years. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is conducting the investigation into the officer-involved shooting, with oversight from the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office to determine if any criminal liability exists. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office are also monitoring the investigation. Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Unit or remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers.
Background Context
Spring Valley, located in San Diego County, has experienced several law enforcement-related incidents in recent years. Notably, in January 2024, a fatal deputy-involved shooting occurred in the area. In that incident, deputies responded to a call about a suspect, later identified as Victor Rendon Jr., who was allegedly armed and had fired shots. After a standoff, Rendon exited the residence and pointed a firearm at deputies, leading to a fatal shooting. These events highlight the ongoing challenges law enforcement agencies face in the region and the importance of thorough investigations into such incidents.
FAQ Section
What led to the police shooting in Spring Valley?
The police shooting occurred after a pursuit of a stolen vehicle, which ended with the suspect being shot in the leg. The suspect, Edwaun Walter Thames, 39, fled from officers and crashed the stolen vehicle. After exiting the vehicle, he allegedly reached toward an item that appeared to be a firearm, prompting Officer Henry Ingram Jr. to discharge his service weapon, striking Thames in the leg.
Who is investigating the officer-involved shooting?
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Office is conducting the investigation into the officer-involved shooting. The San Diego County District Attorney’s Office will review the investigation to determine if any criminal liability exists. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office are also monitoring the investigation.
What charges is the suspect facing?
The suspect, Edwaun Walter Thames, 39, has been booked on suspicion of several felony charges, including auto theft, possessing a stolen vehicle, and felony evasion of police.
Have there been similar incidents in Spring Valley?
Yes, Spring Valley has experienced several law enforcement-related incidents in recent years. Notably, in January 2024, a fatal deputy-involved shooting occurred in the area. In that incident, deputies responded to a call about a suspect who was allegedly armed and had fired shots. After a standoff, the suspect exited the residence and pointed a firearm at deputies, leading to a fatal shooting.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Spring Valley, California |
| Incident Type | Police shooting |
| Date | Thursday evening, January 29, 2026 |
| Suspect’s Name | Edwaun Walter Thames, 39 |
| Charges | Auto theft, possessing a stolen vehicle, felony evasion of police |
| Officer Involved | Officer Henry Ingram Jr. |
| Investigation Lead | San Diego County Sheriff’s Office |
| Additional Oversight | San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Attorney’s Office |
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