Deputy Brian Ishmael was shot and killed while responding to a call regarding a theft from a marijuana garden at a private residence in Somerset.
The off-duty deputy, who has not been identified, was taken to a hospital where he underwent surgery. He's since been released and is helping with the investigation. Deputies arrested two people, one of whom was shot. His condition was unknown Wednesday afternoon. The area of the shooting was closed off for hours as investigators combed the scene to make sure it was safe for neighbors. Aside from countless officers in uniform from other agencies, there were many others who came to hear the sheriff talk about what happened to his fallen officer and offer their support.
Retired El Dorado County Correctional Officer Annette Chavez was in South Lake Tahoe and drove to the sheriff's office when she learned that her friend and former coworker was killed in the line of duty. Jim Reents of Pollock Pines is a retired combat veteran and part of the Star Program, who works closely with deputies. He says no matter the uniform, they're one big family. Click HERE to donate.
Kushman and his wife Kathy said they are keeping their rifle by the front door, just in case another suspect comes knocking. I got a phone call, I got a text, I got an email saying that they were looking for suspicious people and we should all be on the lookout," said Laurie Findlay.
All day Wednesday, Somerset neighbors like Findlay had to live with the sheriff's office warning that other suspects may still be on the loose, while still confronting all that was lost. And they're our community and they're here protecting us," Findlay said.
