UPDATE: Deputies Fatally Shoot Man Outside Residential Fire Near Crestline

The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department has issued an update on a fatal deputy-involved shooting during a residential fire Monday in the Valley of Enchantment area east of Crestline, in the mountains north of Redlands and Loma Linda.

The suspect 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, according to the Sheriff's Department.

"Homicide Investigators have determined that upon arrival, deputies learned that Gaston had weapons and explosives inside and threatened to shoot deputies and fire personnel," Specialized Investigations personnel said in a statement issued Wednesday.

"Deputies entered the house to check for Gaston and found one person inside attempting to extinguish a small fire burning in the living room; however Gaston was not inside the house," investigators said.

Witnesses told deputies Gaston left the residence through a back door and went into the forest, according to the Sheriff's Department. Deputies went to the back of the home and found Gaston walking toward them from the forest.

"Gaston had his hands concealed and the deputies pointed firearms at him ordering him to stop and raise his hands," investigators said. "Gaston refused to comply and verbally challenged deputies, continuing to advance toward them. Gaston made a movement simulating drawing a firearm and the deputies fired, striking Gaston several times."

When the coroner arrived a search of Gaston's person did not locate a gun, investigators said.

"Firearms and handguns were found inside the residence after the fire was extinguished," investigators said. "The incident was captured on the deputies' belt recorders. At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigation in its entirety will be presented to the San Bernardino County District Attorney's office."

Redwood Way is west of State Route 138 and south of Waters Road, north of Highway 18.

Anyone with more information was urged to contact 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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