Bonita, CA – Authorities have identified the man fatally shot by Chula Vista police officers during a domestic disturbance call in Bonita as 56-year-old Carlos Enriquez. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, April 19, 2025, in the 1400 block of Country Vistas Lane, near Sweetwater Summit Regional Park.
Incident Overview
At approximately 5:30 a.m., Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) officers responded to reports of a family disturbance involving a firearm. Upon arrival, they encountered several family members who had exited the home, informing officers that Enriquez remained inside with access to multiple firearms.
Officers established a perimeter and called for additional resources, including an armored vehicle and a surveillance drone. Shortly thereafter, Enriquez exited the residence with his hands in his pockets. Despite officers’ commands to show his hands, he removed them, dropping a firearm onto the steps. When instructed to move away from the weapon, Enriquez instead sat down and placed the gun in his lap.
Officers deployed a beanbag round, striking Enriquez and causing him to drop the weapon. However, he allegedly retrieved the firearm and pointed it at the officers, prompting three CVPD officers to discharge their service rifles. Enriquez was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Enriquez was a veteran known to be suffering from PTSD. The San Diego Police Department has taken over the investigation of this incident
Legal Context and Oversight
The use of deadly force by law enforcement officers is governed by California Penal Code § 835a, which permits such force only when necessary in defense of human life. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Graham v. Connor, 490 U.S. 386 (1989), established the “objective reasonableness” standard, assessing an officer’s use of force based on the perspective of a reasonable officer on the scene.
Families affected by such incidents may seek legal recourse under 42 U.S. Code § 1983, which allows individuals to sue for civil rights violations, including excessive use of force by law enforcement officers.
Seeking Accountability For Officer-Involved Shootings
We at the Sehat Law Firm offer our condolences to the family of Carlos Enriquez.
The Sehat Law Firm is dedicated to representing individuals and families impacted by police misconduct and in-custody deaths. If you or a loved one has been affected by an incident involving law enforcement, our experienced attorneys are here to provide guidance and advocate for your rights. Contact us at (949) 825-5200 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page for a free, confidential consultation.
Legal Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and should not be considered legal or medical advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. Laws vary, and any referenced here may not apply to your situation. This article was created from secondary sources and may not be completely accurate. If you have any concerns, please contact us, and we’ll update or remove the post as needed.
