LASD Deputy-Involved Shooting (DIS) in the 44000 block of Sierra Highway, Lancaster 06-20-26
The following information is based on facts determined from an investigation into the incident described. The investigation is ongoing and as witnesses are interviewed, evidence is analyzed and reports are reviewed, our understanding of the facts may change. The details described below accurately reflect the facts as we currently know them.
On Saturday, June 20, 2026, at approximately 2:05 p.m., Lancaster Sheriff's Station deputies responded to a call for service on the 44000 block of Sierra Highway, Lancaster, regarding an armed male individual assaulting bystanders with multiple knives. The male was later identified as 23-year-old Robert Castro.
Shortly after deputies arrived on scene, Castro rushed toward a deputy and began to stab the deputy with a knife, at which point a deputy-involved shooting occurred. Castro was struck by gunfire and fell to the ground. Moments later, a second deputy-involved shooting occurred. Deputies rendered medical aid to Castro until the arrival of Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel. Castro was subsequently transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
One of the deputies was transported to a local hospital and was admitted for treatment for a stab wound.
No other deputies or persons were injured during this incident.
A knife with an approximate six-inch blade, believed to have been used to stab the wounded deputy, was recovered at the scene along with other knives.
Following notification by local authorities, the California Department of Justice’s California Police Shooting Investigation Team deployed to the incident scene. Alongside other law enforcement partners, the California Department of Justice is investigating. Once the investigation is complete, it will be turned over to the California Department of Justice’s Special Prosecutions Section within the Criminal Law Division for independent review. More information on the California Department of Justice’s roles and responsibilities under AB 1506 is available at: https://oag.ca.gov/ois-incidents
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