Crime & Safety

Deputies Fatally Shoot Man Reaching Into His Waistband at Twin Peaks Fire

The fire was reported 9:58 a.m. Monday at a home on Redwood Way, and deputies were alerted there were weapons and possibly explosives inside the home, according to the Sheriff's Department.

Deputies fatally shot a man who was reaching into his waistband as he came out of a home on fire in Twin Peaks, a mountain community north of Redlands and Loma Linda, San Bernardino County sheriff's officials said in a statement.

He was identified Tuesday as David Andrew Gaston, 56, of Valley of Enchantment.

The fire was reported at 9:58 a.m. Monday in the 22900 block of Redwood Way, in the Valley of Enchantment area, and deputies were alerted there were weapons and possibly explosives inside the home, according to the Sheriff's Department.

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When deputies arrived, they went inside to clear the residence and a man inside went out the back door, sheriff's officials said. Deputies went to the back of the home and located the man coming toward them.

"They ordered the man to stop and show his hands," sheriff's officials said. "The male subject refused to comply and continued toward them while reaching into his waistband. Deputies fired shots and struck the male."

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Medics responded and pronounced the man dead at the scene, sheriff's officials said.

Other family members were at the residence and a woman was transported to a local hospital for unknown reasons.

Sheriff's homicide detectives were investigating the man's death. Bomb/Arson investigators were assigned to determine whether arson was a factor in the fire.

Anyone with more info was urged to call Detective Eddie Bachman or Sgt. John Gaffney at (909)387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com.

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