Newly released video captures the intense final moments of a deadly standoff in California, ending with deputies using an armored BearCat to subdue an armed suspect. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office released nearly seven minutes of footage, combining bodycam and thermal drone video. This footage documents the tense confrontation after David Morales, 59, allegedly ambushed deputies serving an eviction notice on April 9 in Porterville.
The video shows deputies taking cover behind patrol cars as gunfire erupted. SWAT teams responded rapidly, deploying armored vehicles around the suspect’s home. Morales allegedly fired on officers from inside his residence for hours, resisting attempts at negotiation.
The situation escalated at 5:30 p.m. Investigators reported that Morales fired at a Rook vehicle, causing damage. At this point, authorities considered Morales an ongoing threat.
The footage shows Morales exiting his home through a window, armed and wearing camouflage. He took cover under a tree, aiming his weapon at the BearCat’s driver. Deputies responded with force, eventually using the BearCat to neutralize the threat.
Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux stated, “The suspect was lying prone on the ground, in camouflage clothing, continuing to pose a threat. The situation was resolved, and the suspect is now dead.”
The confrontation began when deputies attempted to serve a final eviction notice. Morales reportedly lay in wait, ambushing officers with gunfire. Deputy Randy Hoppert, a former Navy corpsman, was killed during this incident. Emergency plans to airlift him for treatment were abandoned due to his unstable condition.
Boudreaux expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing an emotional meeting with Hoppert’s family. He emphasized that such attacks on law enforcement must cease.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Incident Review Board found the use of force within department policy. A further review by the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office will follow.