Attorney General Bonta Issues Statement on Deaths of El Monte Police Corporal and Officer

OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today issued the following statement regarding the deaths of Corporal Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana of the El Monte Police Department, who were fatally shot in the line of duty on Tuesday, June 14, 2022:

“I join the El Monte community in mourning the devastating loss of Corporal Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana, who last night made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said Attorney General Bonta. “Their heroism — bravely risking their own safety to keep us safe — will forever be remembered by the people of California. I extend my deepest condolences to their loved ones and family, and the entire El Monte community.”

Corporal Paredes was a 22-year veteran of the El Monte Police Department. Throughout his career with the Department, Corporal Paredes worked several specialized assignments before being appointed Corporal. He is survived by his wife, daughter, and son.

Officer Santana began his law enforcement career as a Deputy Sheriff with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, where he served for approximately three years. He left to join the police department in El Monte, the community in which he was raised. Officer Santana is survived by his wife, daughter, and twin sons.