Crime
1 killed, 5 injured after mass shooting at Halloween party in Shasta County
An individual responsible for the shooting was identified and has been interviewed.
On Sunday, October 27, 2024, at approximately 1:10 AM, Shasta County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to reports of a gunshot victim at a residence in the 21000 block of Highway 299 East, Bella Vista.
Responding deputies learned the incident occurred at the site of a large Halloween party and officers from the Redding and Anderson Police Departments responded to assist.
When officers arrived on scene, one 18-year-old male victim was located deceased and 5 other adult victims with non-life threatening injuries were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
The coroner’s office has confirmed the identity of the victim as 18-year-old Drake Myles Alfaro from Redding, California. They have notified the next of kin, and a postmortem examination will be scheduled.
While on scene, officers contacted numerous people who were non-compliant.
Three individuals were arrested in violation of 148(a) PC Resisting or Obstructing a Peace Officer.
An individual responsible for the shooting was identified and has been interviewed.
The circumstances that led to the shooting are still being investigated.
At this time there is no threat to the public.
Numerous people attending the party fled the area prior to deputies arriving on scene. This is an ongoing investigation and anyone with information regarding this case is encouraged to contact the Shasta County Major Crimes Unit at 530-245-6135 or by email at MCU@shastacounty.gov.
Additionally, it was determined that there was underage drinking at the party and officials with the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) have been notified of the incident.
Crime
Armed Man with Reported Mental Health Concerns Arrested inside U.S. Capitol
Police officer suspended after failing to stop an armed man entering the U.S. Capitol.
WASHINGTON, D.C. – On Tuesday, January 21, the United States Capitol Police (USCP) responded to a security alert regarding a man reportedly experiencing mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, who was believed to be armed and in the vicinity of the Capitol.
At approximately 1:15 p.m., USCP officers located the suspect’s vehicle on First Street near East Capitol Street, NE.
A subsequent search of the area determined that the individual had recently entered the Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) and participated in a Capitol tour.
At around 2:15 p.m., officers observed the man exiting the Library of Congress following the tour and walking toward his vehicle.
He was intercepted, searched, and taken into custody. A concealed 9mm handgun was discovered in his waistband during the search.
The suspect, identified as 27-year-old James A. Faber of Massachusetts, was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including:
- Unlawful Activities
- Carrying a Pistol Without a License
- Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
- Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
- Resisting Arrest
The case is currently under review by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Following a review of security footage, it was determined that Faber entered the Capitol Visitor Center through the south checkpoint. Although the magnetometer alarm was triggered, an officer conducted a secondary hand search and subsequently allowed him entry into the building.
As a result of this lapse, the officer involved has been placed on administrative suspension pending an internal investigation by the USCP’s Office of Professional Responsibility to assess their performance in handling the security screening.
Authorities have stated that, at this time, there is no indication that Faber intended to harm members of Congress or any individuals within the Capitol complex.
In response to the incident, the USCP has ordered a comprehensive review of security protocols and mandated refresher training for all personnel involved in visitor screening to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
“The United States Capitol Police demands the highest standards in security screening procedures to ensure the safety of all individuals within the Capitol complex. A thorough review is already underway to reinforce our protocols and training,” the agency stated.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported in connection with this incident.