Officer Romero and his partner Humberto Tovar got into a wild shootout outside of the LAPD Wilshire station when they claimed they came under attack. The OIG determined there was no evidence proving the officers came under attack.
Officer Romero admitted to at least three unintentional discharges and experienced difficulties handling his service pistol, potentially due to a malfunction he did not recall. The investigation found that while attempting to draw his weapon, his seatbelt interfered, and he misfired four rounds inside the vehicle, striking the roof and left side. Believing he was under fire, Romero unintentionally discharged his weapon while trying to respond to the perceived threat.
The Chief of Police ruled Romero’s first four discharges were Out of Policy. The Chief also recommended a Tactical Debrief to address his actions under stress.
LAPD determines Detective Bernard Romero shooting at suspect was out of policy.
