SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Friars Road near SeaWorld Drive was closed in both directions Wednesday afternoon following a fatal officer-involved shooting, according to authorities.
The road closure affects Friars Road between SeaWorld Drive and Napa Street. The San Diego Police Department (SDPD) announced the closure on social media at approximately 3:48 p.m., asking drivers to use alternate routes while investigators worked at the scene.
Detectives with the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office said the road was expected to remain closed until at least midnight.
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed to FOX 5/KUSI that deputies and investigators responded to reports of an officer-involved shooting near Linda Vista Road at approximately 3:55 p.m. In a separate update, SDPD said the shooting occurred near the 4700 block of Friars Road.
What Led to the Shooting?
According to the Sheriff’s Office homicide unit, the incident began after Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) personnel contacted police about a man allegedly vandalizing a trolley car with an axe at the Napa Street station.
Authorities said a patrol officer approached the man during the incident. The man reportedly moved toward the officer while holding the weapon, prompting the officer to fire shots.
Emergency crews attempted to provide medical aid to the man, but he was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said.
The information released so far does not identify the man or provide further details about the circumstances leading up to the confrontation. The incident remains subject to investigation.
Police Activity and Traffic Disruptions
News helicopter footage recorded at approximately 4 p.m. showed several emergency vehicles in the area, including at least four police units, a medical unit and a fire truck.
The closure of Friars Road in both directions may affect drivers traveling near SeaWorld Drive, Napa Street and the surrounding Linda Vista area. Motorists were advised to follow police instructions and seek alternate routes while the investigation continued.
Drivers planning to travel through the area should check official San Diego police updates for the latest information about road access and reopening times.
How to Share Information With Investigators
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office at 858-285-6330.
People who wish to remain anonymous can contact San Diego County Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.
Authorities have not provided additional details about the investigation in the information available for this report. Further updates may be released as investigators continue examining the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
