Officer

California Highway Patrol

7/24/1996

Special Act Award (Gold)

On July 24, 1996, at approximately 1:33 a.m., Officer Portilla and Officer Ralph Casillas, Jr. were on routine patrol northbound on Interstate 405 north of State Route 118. The officers observed a black Chevrolet truck traveling at a high rate of speed through a freeway construction zone. The suspect vehicle exited Interstate 405 at Rinaldi Street, failing to stop for the posted stop sign. The suspect vehicle, driven by Mr. Terry Parker, proceeded westbound on Rinaldi Street from Sepulveda Boulevard, at which point Officer Casillas activated the patrol vehicle’s forward overhead red lights, initiating an enforcement stop. Mr. Parker failed to yield to the patrol vehicle, and the pursuit continued until he reached his residence. He exited the vehicle and entered his residence. After being refused entry into the residence, Officer Casillas directed Officer Portilla to move to the southeast side of the residence while he moved southwest of the front door of the residence. Officer Portilla took cover behind a tree to the southeast of the front door. Suddenly, Mr. Parker fired between four and seven rounds from his 9mm semi-automatic pistol at the two officers. As Officer Casillas was struck by three of Mr. Parker’s rounds, he drew his service pistol and fired four rounds at Mr. Parker. Fearing for Officer Casillas, Officer Portilla fired 12 rounds at Mr. Parker, causing him to retreat back into the residence. As a result of his wounds, Officer Casillas fell backwards and landed on his back in front of the residence. While lying on his back, Officer Casillas advised Officer Portilla he had been shot. Officer Portilla then broadcasted, “Officer down,” and went to the aid of Officer Casillas.

Officer Portilla grabbed Officer Casillas underneath his arms and dragged him to a position of cover, directly south of their CHP vehicle. Officer Casillas was treated at the scene and transported to Holy Cross Medical Center where he underwent treatment for gunshot wounds. Officer Casillas subsequently recovered from his wounds. Neither Officer Portilla nor Mr. Parker sustained injury from the exchange of gunfire. Mr. Parker fled the immediate area on foot via the rear door of the residence. He was eventually located by officers but took his own life before he could be arrested.