San Diego Police Officer Shot and Killed Suspect
A 33-year-old man died following a violent encounter involving an incendiary device in North Park.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Law Enforcement
Police in San Diego shot and killed 33-year-old Saul Sandoval Chavez after he allegedly vandalized cars and used an incendiary device. During the confrontation, three officers and a police dog sustained burns.
Why it matters
The incident remains under investigation as authorities evaluate the actions taken by responding officers during the violent standoff. The confrontation highlights the risks faced by law enforcement when managing volatile, armed suspects in public settings.
Officer Kyle Lehr, a 10-year veteran, fired multiple rounds during the encounter. The San Diego County District Attorney's Office is now reviewing the case for criminal liability.
The players
Saul Sandoval Chavez
The 33-year-old suspect was killed by police following a reported vandalism incident in the North Park neighborhood.
Kyle Lehr
An officer with 10 years of service who fired multiple rounds during the encounter with the suspect.
San Diego County District Attorney's Office
The local agency responsible for reviewing the officer-involved shooting to determine if there was criminal liability.
The details
Police responded to reports of a suspect vandalizing cars with a metal rod near El Cajon Boulevard and Oregon Street before the suspect fled into a business on 30th Street. Chavez allegedly set a police K-9 on fire with an incendiary device, resulting in burns to the animal and three officers.
Timeline
September 16, 2026: Police responded to a vandalism call in North Park.
September 22, 2026: The Sheriff's Office released information identifying the suspect.
Legal Context
This case follows the standard investigative protocol mandated for officer-involved fatalities in the region. Such reviews are designed to ensure transparency and accountability within the local criminal justice system.
Residents in North Park should remain aware of potential ongoing police activity or site closures while the scene investigation concludes. The public can contact the Sheriff's Homicide Unit at (858) 285-6330 or provide anonymous tips via Crime Stoppers at (888) 580-8477.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable dangers police officers encounter during routine vandalism calls. The public is encouraged to use official reporting channels for any information regarding the circumstances of the shooting.
Further reading
For more information on regional oversight, visit the Law Enforcement section.
