On March 15, 2023, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Samuel Aispuro was ambushed and shot in the back while on duty in West Covina. The bullet narrowly missed his protective vest, and he was able to radio for help, triggering a massive manhunt. California Highway Patrol officers arrested Raymundo Duran, 47, on Monday at a San Onofre inspection point on suspicion of driving under the influence and possession of a loaded firearm.
On Wednesday, Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced charges against Duran, including attempted first-degree murder on a police officer, assault on a police officer, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and the special allegation of intentional use of a firearm during the commission of a crime. Duran has a prior strike against him, and if convicted, he faces life in prison.
Sheriff Robert Luna said during a news conference that Duran is a documented gang member with a violent criminal history. He has served time for murder, evading police, and other offenses. Luna said Duran had no business being in possession of a firearm given his criminal history.
Aispuro, a married father of two, has been released from the hospital and is recovering with his family at home. Luna said his bulletproof vest saved his life.
Investigators connected Duran to the shooting after initially booking him as a suspected drunk driver. Security camera video, witness statements, and the firearm recovered by CHP led detectives to believe that Duran is the suspect in the shooting.
Duran is being held in the San Diego County jail in lieu of just over $1 million bail. The weapon recovered by the California Highway Patrol is being tested for forensic evidence.
