CARMEL, CA – A peaceful morning in Carmel was shattered Friday when a confrontation between police and a man reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis ended in gunfire. The incident unfolded after authorities received two distressing 911 calls, the first reporting a neighbor had brandished a firearm, and the second from the suspect’s own mother, warning of her son’s suicidal intentions.
According to the mother, her son was suffering a mental breakdown and had threatened “suicide by cop.” She confirmed that he was armed, adding urgency to the situation. Responding to the calls, three Carmel police officers arrived at the scene on Monte Verde, between 8th and 9th Streets, attempting to negotiate with the armed man. Despite their efforts, the situation escalated.
Neighbors recounted the tense moments leading up to the shooting. One resident described hearing a series of pops, initially unsure if they were fireworks or gunshots, until a significant police presence confirmed the latter. The police had initially employed non-lethal methods, using bean bags to subdue the man, but these measures failed to resolve the standoff.
A mental health crisis team was on the scene but did not have the opportunity to engage with the suspect before the fatal encounter. The sheriff’s office, speaking for the Carmel Police, stated they were unaware of what provoked the deadly gunfire. It remains unclear whether the suspect’s rifle was real, loaded, or fired at officers.
Carmel Police Chief Paul Tomasi was among the initial responders and emerged unharmed, though one officer sustained minor injuries. The specific details of these injuries and the number of officers who discharged their weapons are still under investigation. Witnesses reported hearing at least six shots during the incident.
The suspect’s mother, deeply affected by the ordeal, was also taken to the hospital for undisclosed reasons. The district attorney’s office has taken over the investigation, pledging to release more details in the coming days.
Residents of Carmel, a community not accustomed to such violence, expressed shock and sadness over the incident. “It’s a shame because we don’t see anything like this happening here,” said one neighbor, reflecting the general sentiment of disbelief and concern for the community’s safety.