PALMDALE - A Los Angeles Sheriff's deputy was "ambushed" and killed Saturday night while in his patrol car by an unknown suspect. Authorities suspect the deputy was targeted simply because "he was in uniform."

Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, was found unconscious in his car at 6 p.m. Saturday night, Sheriff Robert Luna told reporters at a late night press conference. The bystander called 911 and Clinkunbroomer was taken to the hospital for a gunshot wound but did not survive, NBC news reported.

Authorities have not yet identified the gunman. Luna said no theory was eliminated for the suspect's motive, but it appeared the deputy was targeted because "he was in uniform."

"He was just driving down the street and for no apparent reason — and we’re still looking into the specific reasons — somebody decided to shoot and murder him," Luna said.
Clinkunbroomer had just left the Palmdale station and his car was found nearby at the intersection of Sierra Highway and Avenue Q. Investigators are searching to see if there is any video of the attack but are asking for anyone with information to come forward.

Story Date: September 18, 2023