Officer-involved shooting incident under investigation

In an update, with more details emerging, to Wednesday’s story about a man dying in an officer-involved shooting, it was discovered the man was pointing a gun at people while outside a store.

The Madera Police Department responded to a report of a man with a gun in the shopping area on the northeast corner of Ellis and Lake Street at about 8:15 last Saturday evening.

The caller said the man with the gun was manipulating the slide of the gun causing bullets to fall to the ground and pointed the gun at the caller’s party.

The caller gave a description of the man with the gun and said he left the store walking.

Officers arrived in the area and located the suspect walking on Merced Street, just south of Ellis Street.

The male, who was later identified as 29-year-old Jose Soliz, was holding a gun when the officers contacted him. The officers gave him numerous commands to drop the weapon and made attempts to de-escalate the situation.

Ultimately, Soliz pointed the gun at the officers and made several steps towards them. One officer fired three rounds from his service weapon, striking Soliz once. Soliz ultimately succumbed to his injuries.

Officers on scene recovered a Glock 19 style firearm, which was previously reported stolen.

“Police Officers face dangerous situations on a daily basis,” said Madera Police Chief Dino Lawson. “The actions of Mr. Solizz could have led to serious injury or death to the officers or members of the public. We are fortunate this did not occur. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Soliz family during this difficult time. We will continue to serve and protect the citizens of Madera,” said Chief Dino Lawson.

This investigation is ongoing. The Madera Sheriff’s Department is handling the officer involved shooting investigation