He was the first officer in Baldwin Park’s history to be killed in the line of duty and the motive behind the shooting may have started over a parking spot, though investigators have not confirmed that account.
A Tragic First in Baldwin Park
Officer Samuel Riveros, a nine-year veteran of the Baldwin Park Police Department, was killed in the line of duty earlier this Summer, the first such death in the department’s history. The 35-year-old officer was responding to a call about a man firing a rifle when he was ambushed and shot upon arrival.
🔹Blessed Are The Peacemakers 🔹
Police Officer Samuel Riveros
Baldwin Park Police Department, California
EOW: Saturday, May 31, 2025#EnoughlsEnough #OfficerDown #EOW #ThinBlueLine pic.twitter.com/tyhjzuUYpA— National Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) (@GLFOP) June 23, 2025
The incident unfolded quickly: a man had allegedly shot and killed another following a dispute, and when Riveros and his fellow officers arrived to assist, they came under immediate fire.
“He would still run into that gunfire. He would still take the bullet,” said Detective Mark Berumen, who once patrolled alongside Riveros. “Without a doubt.”
The Scene Turns Deadly
The shooting began moments after officers pulled up, according to officials. Riveros arrived after two fellow officers, Anthony Pimentel and Alfredo Leal, were already on scene. Pimentel was injured by shattered glass from a bullet strike. Riveros was fatally hit during the gunfire exchange, while other officers returned fire and struck the suspect.
Today, two of our Honor Guard members joined law enforcement agencies from far and wide to pay respects to fallen Officer Samuel Riveros of the Baldwin Park Police Department, who was tragically and senselessly murdered in the line of duty on May 31, 2025. Our department extends… pic.twitter.com/HOtq0Qm3i1
— Sacramento Police Department (@SacPolice) June 26, 2025
Authorities said more than 40 rounds had been fired. Sheriff Robert Luna later said an “AR-15-style” weapon and two high-capacity magazines were found near the shooter.
Who Was the Suspect?
The gunman, a 22-year-old male, survived the shootout and has since been charged with two counts of first-degree murder with special circumstances, along with other crimes. Officials say he was wounded during the exchange and is now in custody.
While investigators have yet to confirm the full motive, neighbors claim the shooter killed 43-year-old Darius Wong, a man visiting family nearby, after a heated argument over a parking space. Wong’s relatives said he was attending a housewarming party when the attack occurred.
A Community Says Goodbye
Riveros was remembered during a memorial service at Toyota Arena in Ontario. Family members, friends, fellow officers, and community leaders came together to celebrate the life of a man described as selfless, loyal, and brave.
He is survived by his parents, siblings, niece, and nephews. A private burial followed the ceremony.
“We are grateful for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers from the community and our brothers and sisters in blue,” the department said in a statement. “Thank you for standing with us as we honor the memory of Officer Riveros.”
