City of Arroyo Grande, CA

02/01/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 02/01/2024 15:29

AGPD: Cortina Apartment Incident

ARROYO GRANDE, CA - At 3:07 PM on January 31, 2024, officers from the Arroyo Grande Police Department responded to a distress call reporting gunshots at the Cortina Apartments, a three-story senior living complex located at 241 N. Courtland Avenue.

A team of officers entered the complex within two minutes of the initial call. They discovered a deceased victim in the office with gunshot wounds. The officers learned of a suspect who resided within the complex, prompting the evacuation of adjacent apartments as a precautionary measure.

A Reverse 9-1-1 notification was promptly issued to residents within a 2-block radius, advising them to shelter in place for their safety. Assistance was sought from several local allied agencies who promptly responded to aid in the ongoing situation. Teams of law enforcement and fire personnel were tasked with evacuating residents and assisting those sheltered in place.

A Sheriff's crisis negotiator successfully contacted the suspect via telephone and confirmed his location within his apartment. A single gunshot was heard by officers staged outside the suspect's apartment door, and communications stopped with him.

The Regional SWAT team responded and contacted the suspect. The suspect was found deceased with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The suspect was identified as David Falcon. It appears the suspect acted alone, and there are no further threats to the public from this incident.

The victim's name is being withheld pending notification to next of kin.

The Arroyo Grande Police Department expresses deep sorrow for the loss of life in this tragic event, extending our condolences to the families and loved ones affected. For their swift and collaborative response, gratitude is extended to allied agencies, encompassing law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other support services. Further, a thank you is also offered to local businesses and restaurants for accommodating displaced residents during this challenging time.

The investigation into this incident remains ongoing. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Detective Anthony Estrada at 805.471.5110 x7016 or via email at [email protected].

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CONTACT INFORMATION:

Zak Ayala, Commander

Arroyo Grande Police Department

[email protected]