Special Agent Richard Frank Morello of the California Department of Justice was killed during an undercover narcotics operation in Riverside on June 14, 1971. He and his partner completed an undercover purchase of hashish at 10598 Dufferin Avenue; when officers moved in to clear the residence, the principal suspect opened fire. Morello was struck and died of his wounds before reaching the hospital. His partner returned fire and killed the shooter in that exchange.

Five people at the scene were arrested and charged with possession of hashish for sale. Morello had served with the DOJ Narcotics Bureau for more than a year and had previously worked for the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office.