Frederick Holder, 28, of Norwalk, California, was shot and killed by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies on June 22, 2021. Deputies say they tried to stop Holder after reports of reckless driving in a box truck and believed he was pointing a handgun at them; they opened fire, and Holder was struck multiple times and died at the scene. The object Holder was holding was later identified as an L-shaped lighter, not a firearm.

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office investigated and declined to prosecute the deputies, concluding they acted in lawful self-defense and defense of a third party. Holder’s family strongly disputes that finding, saying deputies violated department policy and urging further action. They have held press conferences and demonstrations and asked the California Attorney General Rob Bonta to open an investigation.

There are ongoing administrative reviews and public attention on the case. If anyone witnessed the traffic stop or events leading up to it, or has information that could clarify what happened, please share what is known.