The California Department of Justice released a report Oct. 20, 2026, and said it will not seek criminal charges against Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies who fatally shot Martin Sebastian on March 16, 2024; the office concluded the evidence does not meet the beyond-a-reasonable-doubt standard for prosecution.

DOJ said deputies responded to a call about a man with a handgun outside El Tio Tono Market; when deputies arrived, Mr. Sebastian pointed his firearm at the officers and they immediately fired, fatally striking him. After the shooting, DOJ said the firearm was a replica.

DOJ said its investigation, conducted under Assembly Bill 1506, did not show beyond a reasonable doubt that the deputies acted without the intent to defend themselves and others from what they reasonably believed to be imminent death or serious bodily injury; therefore, DOJ said no further action will be taken in this case.

"Loss of life is always tragic, and we hope that this report provides Mr. Sebastian’s family and the community closure" said Attorney General .

"Our priority is to protect the rights of individuals while also fostering a system that promotes trust and accountability between law enforcement and Californians. My office is always working to make California a safer place, and AB 1506 is crucial in helping us achieve that goal," Attorney General Bonta said.

As part of its review, DOJ made three recommendations to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department: amend the body-worn camera policy and provide additional training on camera activation and on what discussions are permitted and prohibited during post-shooting debriefs; provide further training to ensure deputies understand and comply with sequestration policies to preserve investigation integrity; and amend policy and train staff on preservation of evidence related to deputy-involved shootings.

DOJ said it posted a copy of the report online; the office framed the release as part of ongoing efforts to provide transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.

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Rob Bonta

Attorney General · Democrat

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