San Jose suspect killed by police may have wanted armed confrontation
San Jose police Monday said the man killed by police may have been seeking an armed confrontation with officers.
In a press conference, Police Chief Paul Joseph said the incident began around 9:24 p.m. on the 4200 block of Senter Road. Several 911 calls were made stating a man was shooting a gun randomly, and it was initially believed it may have been an active shooter situation.
Police on Monday identified the suspect as 50-year-old Roberto Rivera.
Joseph said police learned Rivera first began shooting into the ceiling of a crowded restaurant, where police said he had been heavily drinking and making comments about suicidal ideation.
He then went outside where he continued to shoot into the air and allegedly shot someone, police said. Investigators said the shooting appeared random and the bystander was not targeted.
Police Chief Joseph said the victim, an adult male, was seriously injured but is in stable condition.
Officers arriving to the scene found Rivera near his car holding what police said was a stolen .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Joseph said Rivera refused to follow officers' commands and pointed the gun at them, which led to four officers shooting at him.
According to police, Rivera was shot more than once. He was given medical aid but died at the hospital.
During the press conference, Joseph said Rivera had estranged himself from his family, and they believe he may have wanted an armed confrontation with police.
Investigators are still looking into a motive, but police said Rivera had minimal criminal history.