Full Breakdown
Kidnapper Killed After Shooting Victim in Car Trunk During Chino Hills Police Pursuit
7/31/2026, 12:28:02 PM
Core Event – Fatal Shooting During Traffic Stop
On July 29, 2026, San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of gunshots and a person yelling for help on the 2100 block of Monteverde Drive in Chino Hills. A man exiting his home was shot and forced into the trunk of a gray Nissan Altima with Oregon plates. The suspects fled, leading deputies on a short, high-speed pursuit that ended on Wandering Ridge Drive. Surveillance video captured the driver exiting the vehicle, opening the trunk, and firing a shot into the victim inside. Deputies returned fire, killing the driver. The victim in the trunk and the driver were pronounced dead at the scene; the passenger surrendered and was taken into custody. No deputies were injured.
Background & Context
Investigators noted recent burglaries in the neighborhood and that the victim’s home appeared to have had its electricity cut off before the incident. The motive for the initial shooting and the relationship between the suspects and the victim remain unknown.
Data & Statistics
- Victim: male in his 60s (some reports describe him as a late-50s businessman).
- Suspects: driver and passenger both in their late 60s; identities not released.
- Timeline: initial shots reported just after 10 p.m.; pursuit covered roughly one mile; fatal exchange occurred shortly before 10:30 p.m.
- Vehicle: Nissan Altima, Oregon license plates.
Official Statements & Responses
Sheriff’s Department spokesperson Gloria Orejel said deputies were unaware of a kidnapping when they initiated the traffic stop and that “the motive for this incident is still under investigation.” The department has asked anyone with information to contact its Homicide Detail.
On-the-Ground Reports
Local resident Gregory Uthus said the event was unexpected for the area. Neighbor Kyle Rose described the scene as “blown out of the water.” Additional eyewitnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots and a woman screaming for help as deputies pursued the suspect vehicle.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Victim’s age: most sources list the victim as in his 60s, while one report suggests a late-50s businessman.
- Cause of death: officials have not confirmed whether the victim died from the initial shot on Monteverde Drive or the later shot fired into the trunk.
- Power outage link: some neighbors noted a power cut at the victim’s home before the attack, but investigators have not established a connection.
- Passenger’s condition: it is unclear whether the passenger sustained any injuries during the exchange.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The driver failed to yield and a short pursuit began,” — Gloria Orejel, sheriff's spokeswoman
- “I was shocked, to be honest,” — Gregory Uthus
- “I'm just really worried because nobody's picking up the phone.” — Adam Nijiati
What’s Next
Homicide detectives continue to process both crime scenes, review additional surveillance video, and collect witness statements. The Chino Police Department is assisting the investigation, and authorities have indicated that no further suspects are being sought at this time.
