Man killed by police after firing in officers' direction identified: SDPD

The video above was broadcasted on July 10, 2024.

CHULA VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) -- A man who was shot dead by police last week after firing in the direction of officers in Chula Vista was identified, authorities said.

Moises Colunga Jr., 50, was announced as the suspect, Lt. Daniel Meyer with the San Diego Police Department said in a news release Monday.

Authorities first received a call on Wednesday around 1:01 a.m. about a car crash at Marina Parkway and Sandpiper Way, according to police. When officers arrived on scene, they found the sole driver of a white sedan with front end damage inside the vehicle.

Police told the man to exit the car, but instead the engine revved as it appeared he was trying to drive away. The vehicle, however, did not move likely due to the front end damage, per SDPD.

The man continued to stay in the vehicle when officers prepared to use less lethal options, such as the use of pepper balls, to get him out safely and apprehend him.

"At one point, officers could briefly see that he appeared to have a firearm in his hand," Meyer said.

Around 30 minutes later, the man opened the car door, reached around and then pointed a firearm at officers, according to police.

The suspect shot at least one round in the direction of officers, prompting a Chula Vista police sergeant to return fire that struck the suspect in the upper body.

First responders took Colunga to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Police found a firearm next to the driver’s seat of the car.

Authorities also identified the CVPD sergeant involved in the shooting. His name is Patrick Alvarez who has been with the Chula Vista Police Department for about 23 years.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call the San Diego Police Homicide Unit at 619-531-2293 or Crime Stoppers at 888-580-8477.