By Loretta Kalb
lkalb@sacbee.com
A residential doorstep discussion about a man's damaged car in South Lake Tahoe turned deadly Saturday night when the occupant of the home fired a shot. When police responded, he shot himself in the head, authorities said today.
South Lake Tahoe Police began receiving calls from people in the area of Brockway Avenue near Rubicon Trail at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, a department spokesman said.
Upon arrival, officers spoke to a man who said he had confronted the home's occupant at his home to discuss his vehicle being damaged.
The man told police the suspect drew a pistol and aimed it at the visitor, who immediately turned and began to run away.
The man said that as he made his escape, he heard one shot fired, police said.
Witnesses told police they believed the alleged shooter may have fled the area on foot.
South Lake Tahoe officers, aided by El Dorado County Sheriff's deputies and California Highway Patrol officers, searched for the suspect, set up a perimeter and prepared to track him with a K9 unit.
That's when the suspect ran into the street on Rubicon Trail and, in front of officers, shot himself in the head, authorities said. The man, who has not yet been identified, died at the scene.
Lt. Brian Williams, spokesman, reported that officers have not yet accounted for the first round the suspect fired.
The preliminary investigation is continuing, Williams said. But he added that there are no additional suspects.
Witnesses or anyone with information tied to the case is asked to call the department at (530) 542-6100. Refer to case number 1301-0592.
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