On April 18, 2020, 31-year-old San Marcos police officer Justin Putnam was killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call. Officer Putnam and two fellow officers, Franco Stewart and Justin Mueller, were ambushed upon entering the residence. Putnam was struck multiple times and died at the scene; the other two officers returned fire and later recovered from their injuries.

The suspect was identified as 46-year-old Jose Alfredo Perez DeLaCruz, who was arrested and charged with Putnam’s murder and the attempted murder of the two other officers. DeLaCruz is described as an undocumented immigrant from Mexico with no prior criminal record. The case remains active.

Putnam was remembered as a dedicated, selfless officer, known for his sense of humor and commitment to the community; he was a brother and a fiancé. A large procession and public funeral with full law enforcement honors followed, and the community made charitable contributions in his name.

Does anyone have information about the incident or knew Officer Putnam who can add details?