San Jose Police Fatally Shoot Man Who Fired at Officers, Four Firearms Seized

San Jose, CA – Karim Kahn, 37, was fatally shot by San Jose Police Department officers on Sunday afternoon after he reportedly fired at officers multiple times. The incident, which unfolded in the Almaden Valley area, led to the seizure of four firearms and ammunition from Kahn. The Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office is investigating the officer-involved shooting.

Police responded to a 911 call from Kahn's parents, who reported their son was suffering from mental health issues, was off his medication, and had become physically aggressive, throwing objects at them. No weapons were initially reported during the call for assistance. Officers, including those with crisis intervention and mental health training, arrived at the scene.

Upon approaching an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) behind the parents' home where Kahn resided, officers observed him pointing a long gun directly at them. Police Chief Paul Joseph stated that officers retreated to a safe distance and attempted to de-escalate the situation by calling Kahn on the phone. After approximately 20 minutes of dialogue, Kahn ended the call.

Kahn then emerged from the side yard and fired at least one round at four officers who were taking cover behind a marked patrol car, striking the vehicle's fender. He subsequently retreated to the rear of the home, jumped a fence into a neighboring backyard where additional officers were positioned, and was seen armed with a shotgun and a rifle. An exchange of gunfire ensued between Kahn and one officer.

Kahn was struck by an officer's round and pronounced dead at the scene. Investigations revealed he was in possession of four firearms—a rifle, a shotgun, a loaded revolver, and a loaded semi-automatic handgun—along with at least 50 rounds of ammunition and hearing protection. Chief Joseph highlighted the tragedy, noting, "This incident is a tragedy primarily because there was such easy access to firearms during a mental health crisis." No officers were injured during the confrontation.

The San Jose Police Department's homicide unit and the Santa Clara County District Attorney's Office are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. The officer who discharged their firearm, an eight-and-a-half-year veteran, has been placed on administrative leave. Police confirmed they had previous contact with Karim Kahn.