Santee Standoff Ends in Fatal Officer-Involved Shooting of 55-Year-Old Michael Redding

Santee, California – A prolonged standoff in Santee on July 27, 2025, culminated in the fatal shooting of 55-year-old Michael Lee Redding by San Diego County Sheriff's deputies after he reportedly fired at law enforcement personnel. The incident, which began with a domestic disturbance call, saw deputies utilize a drone and chemical agents before Redding emerged from a residence on Willowgrove Avenue. No deputies were injured during the multi-hour confrontation.

The San Diego County Sheriff's Office responded to the 9000 block of Willowgrove Avenue shortly before noon following a 911 call from Redding's brother-in-law. The caller reported that Redding was "threatening everybody" with a pistol, including his ex-girlfriend who lived across the street, as stated in a tweet by Eva Knott. Deputies attempted negotiations with Redding, who remained barricaded inside the home for several hours.

The Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Detail (SWAT) and Crisis Negotiation Team were deployed to the scene. After a gunshot was heard from inside the residence, deputies breached the door and deployed a drone to locate Redding, who was found further barricading himself. Chemical agents were then introduced into the home in an effort to compel him to surrender.

Just after 6 p.m., Redding exited the residence and fired his pistol at deputies, striking an armored vehicle. Deputies Luke Vories, Kevin McCauley, and Parker Robbins returned fire, fatally wounding Redding. All three deputies, members of the Special Enforcement Detail, had their body-worn cameras activated during the incident.

The San Diego Police Department's Homicide Unit is investigating the officer-involved shooting under a countywide protocol, a standard procedure designed to ensure an independent review. The Sheriff's Office has released video footage of the incident, including drone footage and audio from the 911 call, providing a detailed account of the events leading to the fatal encounter.