Andy Ernesto Espinoza Garay dies in fatal Virginia police shooting
Fatal Virginia police shooting death of Andy Ernesto Espinoza Garay – Obituary
Virginia State Police have identified the individual who was shot and killed by law enforcement following a pursuit on Interstate 95 on the night of October 30. The deceased has been named as 26-year-old Andy Ernesto Espinoza Garay, a resident of Lanham. This tragic incident unfolded after an alleged carjacking that also led to injuries during a chaotic chase.
The series of events began around 9:45 p.m. when U.S. Park Police responded to a carjacking report on Suitland Parkway near Silver Hill Road. Approximately 30 minutes later, a Virginia state trooper spotted the stolen vehicle on I-95 near the 158-mile marker. During the pursuit, the driver crashed into a Virginia State Police vehicle, causing it to flip, although the trooper inside was unharmed.
The chase concluded near the Joplin Road exit, roughly 15 miles south of Washington, D.C. Authorities reported that Espinoza Garay, who was wearing a ski mask, ignored commands from the troopers and made several quick, erratic movements with his hands. This prompted the officers to fire their weapons, resulting in his death at the scene. The police have not disclosed whether any firearms were recovered.
Following the incident, the four troopers involved have been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is conducted. The number of officers who discharged their weapons has not been specified.