Fatal CHP Shooting in Covina After 210 Freeway Tow Truck Assault

• A suspect was fatally shot by CHP at a Covina gas station after a pursuit stemming from an assault on a tow truck driver on the 210 Freeway in Glendora.
• The incident began around 3 a.m. Friday when the suspect allegedly shot a tow truck driver during an argument on the freeway shoulder near Grand Avenue.
• The tow truck driver was hospitalized in critical condition; no officers were injured.
• All eastbound lanes of the 210 Freeway at Grand Avenue remain closed for investigation, causing major traffic backups.

An early-morning assault on a tow truck driver on the 210 Freeway in Glendora escalated into a police pursuit that ended with a fatal officer-involved shooting at a gas station in Covina. The California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation.

Chase and Shooting Unfold in Covina

According to the CHP, the incident started just before 3 a.m. on Friday, July 12, when multiple 911 calls reported a gunshot victim on the eastbound 210 Freeway just east of Grand Avenue in Glendora. Officers arrived to find a tow truck driver suffering from a gunshot wound. The suspect had called for a tow, then allegedly argued with the driver and opened fire before fleeing.

CHP officers spotted the suspect's white vehicle traveling westbound on the 210 Freeway. A pursuit began, lasting about 10 minutes, and ended when the suspect pulled into a gas station at Arrow Highway and North Citrus Avenue in Covina. The suspect exited the vehicle holding a handgun, prompting CHP officers to open fire. The suspect was struck and later died at a hospital. A gun was recovered at the scene.

Victim and Investigation Details

The tow truck driver remains hospitalized in critical condition. Authorities have not released the motive for the assault or whether the suspect and victim knew each other. No officers were injured. The CHP and Covina Police Department are investigating.

Traffic Impact on 210 Freeway

All eastbound lanes of the 210 Freeway at Grand Avenue were shut down Friday morning, causing significant traffic delays. Drivers were advised to seek alternate routes. The closure is expected to last until further notice as investigators process the scene.

Local California Context

This incident occurred in the San Gabriel Valley, affecting the cities of Glendora and Covina in Los Angeles County. The 210 Freeway is a major artery connecting the Inland Empire to the San Fernando Valley, and such closures can disrupt commuters across the region.

Conclusion

The fatal shooting of a suspect by CHP after a pursuit linked to a tow truck assault highlights the dangers faced by roadside workers. The investigation continues, and authorities urge anyone with information to contact the CHP.

Sources

• abc7
• foxla