Lodi, California — A former Sacramento County sheriff’s deputy suspected of killing his 11-year-old son died Tuesday after leading authorities on a high-speed chase along Interstate 5, ending in a crash and officer-involved shooting. The violent sequence of events unfolded just hours after the children’s mother alerted police to disturbing home-security footage showing their father assaulting the boy.
Tragic Discovery at Elk Grove Home
Police in Elk Grove responded around 8 a.m. after the mother reported seeing video of the children’s father attacking their 11-year-old son. When officers arrived, they found the boy suffering from severe stab wounds. He was rushed to a hospital but did not survive.
The child’s 6-year-old sister was found unharmed, authorities said.
Suspect Identified as Former Sheriff’s Deputy
Investigators quickly identified the suspect as 40-year-old Marvin Morales, a former Sacramento County sheriff’s deputy. According to officials, Morales had been terminated from the agency in February 2024 after being caught using illicit drugs. Sheriff’s Sgt. Amar Gandhi confirmed the employment history and said multiple deputies responded once Morales fled the home.
High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Deadly Shooting
After fleeing the scene, Morales was spotted driving south on Interstate 5, setting off a pursuit involving Elk Grove police, Sacramento County deputies, and the California Highway Patrol. The chase came to an end near Lodi after officers deployed a spike strip that disabled his vehicle.
Officials said Morales crashed, exited the vehicle, and was subsequently shot by law enforcement. He was transported to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
The Elk Grove Police Department confirmed the identity of the deceased suspect, originally reported by local news outlets.
Unanswered Questions About the Final Moments
Authorities have not yet determined whether Morales fired at officers during the confrontation. Investigators noted that a gun safe inside his Elk Grove home was discovered empty, adding uncertainty about what happened during the pursuit’s final moments.
At least two sheriff’s deputies and one Elk Grove police officer were involved in the shooting. No law enforcement personnel were injured.
Ongoing Investigation
The officer-involved shooting is now under review by multiple agencies, following standard protocol for critical incidents involving police gunfire. Detectives are also working to determine a timeline leading up to the attack on Morales’ son, including what may have prompted the violent assault.
Community Response and Public Safety Concerns
Incidents involving former law enforcement officers often heighten public concern, especially when children are harmed. Officials emphasized that the mother acted immediately upon seeing the disturbing footage, which allowed authorities to respond quickly, though the tragedy could not ultimately be prevented.
Residents in Elk Grove and Lodi expressed shock as news spread, with many questioning how a former deputy with known drug issues had deteriorated to such a violent breaking point. Law enforcement agencies reminded the public that early reporting of domestic violence concerns can save lives, even when the danger appears uncertain.
What Happens Next
A full forensic review, autopsy findings, and body-camera footage from the pursuit are expected to provide more clarity in the coming weeks. Investigators will also examine the suspect’s employment history, prior disciplinary issues, and potential warning signs preceding the attack.
Authorities have not released details about funeral arrangements for the child, and the family has not issued a public statement.
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