Sheriff's Sergeant Shot And Killed During Burglary Call In Southern California

Twitter / Via Twitter: @NewsSourceLA

A decorated Los Angeles County sheriff's sergeant was shot and killed Wednesday after arriving first on the scene of a reported burglary.

Sgt. Steve Owen and another sheriff's deputy responded to a burglary call in Lancaster, about 75 miles north of Los Angeles, shortly after noon, Executive Officer Neal Tyler said at a news conference. While at the call, Owen was struck by gunfire and later succumbed to his injuries at a hospital surrounded by family, Tyler said.

After the shooting, the suspect tried to steal Owen's car, rammed another patrol car, and fled on foot, ABC 7 reported.

A manhunt ensued, and local news helicopter footage later showed a suspect surrendering in a back yard. Officials did not provide the name of the suspected gunman, but at the news conference described him as an adult parolee.

Officials also said that at one point during the incident hostages were taken.

Owen was a 29-year veteran of the sheriff's department who was promoted five years ago and beloved in the community, Tyler said.

"He goes above and beyond with respect to youth actives and community involvement," he said.

Sgt. Steve Owen, center, in a sheriff's department photo from 2014.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department / Via shq.lasdnews.net

In 2014, Owen was among a group of officers awarded a meritorious conduct medal. According to the sheriff's department, Owen and the other officers subdued an armed, bullet-proof-vest-wearing chase suspect using tasers.

After announcing Owen's death Wednesday, Tyler commending him for his bravery.

"Steve clearly is very much a hero," he added.

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