San Diego Police Officer Shoots Armed Man
A police officer fatally shot a man wielding an axe near a trolley platform following reports of vandalism.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Violence
San Diego police fatally shot 36-year-old Thomas Johnson on Wednesday after responding to a call about a man vandalizing a trolley with an axe. Officer Luisito Fanlo fired multiple rounds at the scene, and Johnson was pronounced dead shortly thereafter.
Why it matters
The incident has triggered standard oversight protocols to evaluate both the use of force and the circumstances leading to the fatal encounter. These reviews are essential for transparency and legal accountability in officer-involved shootings.
The San Diego Police Department is currently conducting an administrative review of the firearm discharge. Additionally, the case will be submitted to the San Diego County District Attorney's Office for a comprehensive review of criminal liability.
The players
Thomas Johnson
He was the 36-year-old San Diego resident who was killed in the officer-involved shooting.
Luisito Fanlo
He is the San Diego police officer who fired multiple rounds during the encounter.
San Diego Police Department
This is the law enforcement agency responsible for patrolling the city and conducting the internal administrative review.
San Diego County District Attorney's Office
This government office holds the authority to review the case for potential criminal liability.
The details
Officers were dispatched after reports indicated a man was using an axe to vandalize a trolley near the Morena/Linda Vista platform. When located in the 4700 block of Friars Road, the suspect allegedly approached an officer while still armed with the axe, resulting in the officer firing multiple rounds.
Timeline
Wednesday, 3:20 p.m.: Officers were dispatched to a report of vandalism.
Wednesday, 3:35 p.m.: The suspect was found by police.
Wednesday, 4:10 p.m.: The man was pronounced dead.
Legal Context
This incident follows the formal investigative protocols mandated by the San Diego Police Department for officer-involved shootings. Such events remain subject to mandatory administrative and legal scrutiny to determine compliance with department use-of-force policies.
Authorities temporarily closed Friars Road between Sea World Drive and Napa Street for the investigation. Residents are advised that the incident remains under administrative review and legal assessment.
The takeaway
Public safety incidents involving officer intervention often necessitate thorough, multi-agency reviews to determine whether force was legally justified. Understanding these procedural steps provides clarity on how oversight bodies hold law enforcement accountable after fatal encounters.
Further reading
For more information on incidents in the city, visit the San Diego violence section.
