The Susanville Police Department and the Lassen County District Attorney’s Office have released critical updates regarding an officer-involved shooting that took place earlier this month in the 300 block of Richmond Road.
On Wednesday, authorities announced the release of a “Critical Incident Video” alongside the completion of a formal case review by Lassen County District Attorney Melyssah Rios.
According to police records, the incident originally unfolded on May 7th at approximately 12:25a.m., when officers responded to an apartment building on Richmond Road.
Police Department Releases Body-Cam Footage
The newly released Critical Incident Video contains body-worn camera footage, audio recordings, and chronological details compiled from the morning of the encounter.
Susanville Public Safety Chief Allen Sobol stated that the department is sharing the footage to maintain transparency and provide the community with necessary context about the rapidly evolving situation.
According to Chief Sobol, officers responded to an apartment where an armed subject attacked an officer with a machete. Children were present inside the residence at the time of the violent assault.
One Susanville police officer sustained injuries during the confrontation. The officer was transported to a local hospital, treated for their injuries, and subsequently released.
“The Susanville Police Department recognizes that incidents involving the use of force are significant for our community and our officers,” Chief Sobol said. “We appreciate the public’s patience and attention in reviewing the information being shared.”
Follow this link to watch the video on the Susanville Police Department’s Facebook page.
District Attorney Concludes Case Review
Lassen County District Attorney Melyssah Rios confirmed that her office has finished its independent evaluation of the investigative files submitted regarding the officer-involved shooting.
The findings have been compiled into a comprehensive public report. Under California Assembly Bill 748, agencies are required to release relevant portions of investigative files—including body-worn camera footage involving the deadly use of force—within 45 days of an incident.
Rios noted that because Lassen County is currently transitioning to a brand-new public website, residents trying to find the formal report may need to look closely at the digital layout. The full document is currently hosted on the county’s existing web portal and can be accessed by following this link.
