Los Angeles: On Friday, June 25, 2004, at about 8:00 p.m., Officer Craig Heredia, 30 years of age and nine years with the Department, assigned to Rampart Area Major Offender Unit, was serving a narcotics search warrant along with several other members of the unit at 1495 Wallace Avenue. The entry team forced entry into the residence and Officer Heredia was confronted by a suspect, who was armed with a shotgun. In fear for his life, Officer Heredia fired one round from his Department issued shotgun, striking the suspect.

Los Angeles City Fire Department Paramedics responded to the scene, however, Lopez died from his injuries at the location. Narcotics were later recovered both on Lopez and inside his residence.

The suspect has been identified as 50 year-old Jose Luis Lopez of Los Angeles.

The Major Offender Unit Officers were attired in Department raid jackets and ballistic helmets and were also wearing their protective vests.

This news release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jason Lee, Media Relations Section, at 213-485-3586.