Apple Valley Family Claims Deputy Shot Son During 911 Call

An Apple Valley mother, Tamara Brown, alleges a San Bernardino County deputy shot her 18-year-old son, Elijah Brown, after she contacted 911 to report a potential break-in at their home. The incident occurred in February 2025, leaving the family seeking answers and demanding accountability.

Details of the Incident

According to the family’s attorney, Denisse Gastélum, Tamara Brown remained on the phone with the 911 dispatcher when deputies arrived. The dispatcher reportedly assured Brown it was safe to exit the house. While attempting to reach safety, Brown witnessed her son being shot by law enforcement.

Family’s Account and Security Footage

Elijah Brown was struck by gunfire three times in the stomach and chest, as captured by the family’s home security camera. Tamara Brown stated, “They almost took my son’s life and I thank God every day that my son is still here with me.”

Conflicting Statements and Legal Action

Following the shooting, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department released a statement claiming Elijah Brown was armed with a knife. Attorney Gastélum refuted this claim, stating, “It’s a classic example of officers being impulsive, being reckless, racially profiling a young black kid and shooting first and thinking later.”

Ongoing Investigation

The Sheriff’s Department has not yet released body camera footage or the 911 call recordings. The San Bernardino District Attorney’s Office confirmed to FOX11 that the case remains under review.

Family’s Plea for Justice

Christianna Brown, Elijah’s sister, expressed her relief that she can still communicate with her brother, stating, “I thank God every day that I’m still able to call my brother…because I almost wasn’t able to.” The family is calling for the deputy involved to be terminated and for the department to implement comprehensive bias training.

Concerns About Training and Bias

Tamara Brown questioned the deputy’s training and alleged racial bias, saying, “My son wasn’t even out the door yet, and he starts shooting…He was racist. He was biased. And he shouldn’t have been like that.”