Sheriff's Office

For Immediate Release

Washoe County Sheriff's Detectives Lead Officer Involved Shooting Investigation in Sparks

At approximately 7:50PM on August 22, 2022, Sparks Police Officers responded to a family disturbance in the area of 1600 Merchant St. with the additional information being provided of an armed suspect still on scene.  Two officers responded, and shortly after arriving on scene made contact with the suspect who was armed with a knife, and officers advised that shots were fired by officers.  Sparks Police Officers immediately began rendering aid until emergency medical technicians arrived.  The suspect was transported to Renown Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased.

Sparks Police enacted the Washoe County Regional Officer Involved Shooting Protocol.  The Washoe County Sheriff’s Detectives Unit will be the lead investigating agency on this incident and the Reno Police Department will also be assisting in this ongoing investigation.  There are no outstanding suspects in this case and there is no danger to the public.  Both Sparks Police Officers have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is being conducted.  At the conclusion of the investigation, the investigative report will be turned over to the Washoe County District Attorney’s Office for review per the Officer Involved Shooting Protocol. 

Additional details will be provided when they become available.  Anyone who witnessed the incident and has details are asked to call the WCSO Detectives Unit at (775) 328-3320 or call Secret Witness at 322-4900.

The Washoe County Sheriff's Office is dedicated to preserving a safe and secure community with professionalism, respect, integrity and the highest commitment to equality. Sheriff Darin Balaam is the 27th person elected to serve as the Sheriff of Washoe County since the Office was created in 1861. The Washoe County Sheriff's Office strives to ensure public safety by building trust and creating partnerships within the diverse communities in which we serve. We will promote the dignity of all people supported by our words and actions through open communication while fostering an environment of professionalism, integrity and mutual respect.

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