Deputy Sheriff Nelson Henry Yamamoto, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California

Deputy Sheriff Nelson Henry Yamamoto

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, California

End of Watch Tuesday, March 31, 1992

Nelson Henry Yamamoto

Deputy Sheriff Nelson Yamamoto died two days after being shot when he responded to a man with a gun call in the 2500 block of Cass Place in the Walnut Park area of the county.

Responding deputies observed two armed men inside of a garage at the location. The two subjects exited the front of the garage and exchanged shots with Deputy Yamamoto, who was shot in the abdomen, shoulder, thigh, and foot. One of the two subjects was shot and killed by other deputies.

The man who shot Deputy Yamamoto was able to escape. Investigators determined the man was an illegal alien who was wanted for one murder in the Los Angeles area and for two murders in El Salvador. The man fled to New York where he sought work on a farm. His new employer recognized him on an episode of America's Most Wanted and called the FBI. Special agents and New York State troopers responded to the man's home to interview him.

The subject fled in his car but was shot and killed by officers following a short pursuit.

Deputy Yamamoto had served with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department for three years. He is survived by his parents.

Bio

Age 26
Tour 3 years
Badge Not available

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Incident Date Sunday, March 29, 1992
Weapon Handgun; .357 caliber
Offender Shot and killed

illegal alien

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The death of Nelson was one of the sadist days of my career at FKP. He was a fine young man and he came from hardy stock. The Yamamoto family was understandably grief stricken, but stoic and gracious throughout what had to be the most painful time a parent can experience - the loss of a son. They told me repeatedly that Nelson loved being a deputy sheriff and was extremely proud to call himself a "Firestone Deputy". His death touched me deeply - I will never forget Nelson or his Family.

Dennis Wilson, Retired Captain
FPK Lieutenant at the time

March 31, 2018