California Suspect Throws Brick, Catches Bullets

This video, provided by the El Centro Police Department in California, shows a use-of-force incident involving 31-year-old Elizandro Vargas. The police, having responded to a complaint that Vargas was threatening someone with a brick, make contact with him, whereupon Vargas attempts to walk away. As he walks, Vargas repeatedly ignores commands to drop the brick. At 0:43, he elects to test physics by throwing it at an officer, who sidesteps to the left and shoots Vargas twice in the chest. The suspect was transported to an area hospital, where he died. Although this is a textbook "good shoot"- bricks easily qualify as deadly force- I would not be surprised if there were some legal and societal pushback to follow.

About the Author

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Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.


Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.

Published 12 months ago

This video, provided by the El Centro Police Department in California, shows a use-of-force incident involving 31-year-old Elizandro Vargas. The police, having responded to a complaint that Vargas was threatening someone with a brick, make contact with him, whereupon Vargas attempts to walk away. As he walks, Vargas repeatedly ignores commands to drop the brick. At 0:43, he elects to test physics by throwing it at an officer, who sidesteps to the left and shoots Vargas twice in the chest. The suspect was transported to an area hospital, where he died. Although this is a textbook "good shoot"- bricks easily qualify as deadly force- I would not be surprised if there were some legal and societal pushback to follow.

About the Author

Author's Photo

Cole Simms

Cole Simms is an Air Guardsman, NASA enthusiast, police officer, and security contractor with particular experience in austere environments. Outside of work, he volunteers as a Stop The Bleed instructor for area schools. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management, and blends his knowledge and experience to write analysis for Funker530.


Need a tried-and-tested fixed blade that's trusted by police, military and protective service users all over the world? Cole recommends Ironside Edge Works for your tactical or EDC blade needs.

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