FONTANA, CA — Tragedy Outside Local Restaurant Leaves Two Dead, Suspect Killed by Off-Duty Deputy in Shocking Shooting Incident
Fontana, California — A routine evening turned into a horrifying scene of chaos and loss Saturday night after a violent altercation outside a popular local restaurant ended with three people dead, including the suspected gunman, in what authorities are calling a tragic and unexpected act of senseless violence.
According to the Fontana Police Department, the incident unfolded around 7:45 p.m. on June 22, 2025, outside El Amigo Family Restaurant on Foothill Boulevard, a well-frequented eatery known for its vibrant atmosphere and family-friendly dining. Witnesses reported that the suspect—later identified as 33-year-old Derek Martinez of San Bernardino—arrived at the establishment visibly agitated and quickly became involved in a confrontation with two individuals seated on the restaurant’s outdoor patio.
Argument Turns Deadly
What began as a verbal altercation quickly escalated into deadly gunfire. Eyewitnesses say Martinez pulled out a handgun and fired multiple rounds at close range, fatally striking both victims—identified Sunday as 29-year-old Miguel Orozco of Rancho Cucamonga and 27-year-old Leticia Navarro of Fontana. Both were pronounced dead at the scene despite rapid intervention from first responders.
According to authorities, the two victims were not armed and had no known prior relationship with the shooter, leading police to investigate whether the attack was random or driven by an undisclosed motive. Investigators have not ruled out the possibility of mental health concerns playing a role.
Off-Duty Deputy Intervenes
As chaos erupted and diners scrambled for cover, a nearby off-duty San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputy—whose name has not yet been publicly released—sprang into action. The deputy, who was dining inside the restaurant with his family, immediately drew his service weapon and confronted Martinez in the parking lot.
Fontana Police Chief Michael Dorsey described the deputy’s actions as “decisive and courageous,” noting that Martinez ignored repeated commands to drop his weapon and instead turned it toward the deputy. Fearing for his life and the safety of others, the deputy discharged his weapon, striking Martinez several times.
Martinez was later pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.
Community in Shock
The sudden and brutal nature of the incident has left the Fontana community shaken. Candlelight vigils were held late Sunday near the restaurant, with friends and family of the victims gathering to mourn and honor their lives.
“Miguel was kind-hearted, always cracking jokes, always there when you needed him,” said his cousin, Juan Orozco, tearfully. “He didn’t deserve this. None of them did.”
Leticia Navarro, remembered by friends as a “light in every room,” worked as a medical assistant and had dreams of becoming a registered nurse. “She was working so hard for her future,” said longtime friend Erica Mendoza. “Now she won’t get the chance.”
Investigation Ongoing
Fontana Police detectives, working with the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department and the District Attorney’s Office, are piecing together the timeline of events and attempting to determine Martinez’s motive. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses has been collected, and investigators are also examining Martinez’s digital footprint, phone records, and mental health history.
Chief Dorsey confirmed that the off-duty deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave, per standard protocol. The department emphasized that initial evidence strongly supports that the deputy acted lawfully and in defense of others.
Mayor and Officials Respond
Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren released a statement late Sunday expressing deep condolences to the victims’ families and praising the deputy’s swift action in preventing further loss of life.
“This tragedy strikes at the heart of our community,” Warren wrote. “We mourn with the families, we stand with them, and we commend the bravery of the off-duty deputy who undoubtedly prevented even more lives from being lost.”
A City Grieves
As Fontana grapples with the aftermath of the violence, grief counselors have been made available to those affected, and city leaders are encouraging residents to come together in unity and resilience.
“We are heartbroken,” said Pastor Luis Rodriguez of Hope Church, which opened its doors for prayer services Sunday night. “But we will not let darkness win. Love, compassion, and faith will carry us through.”
A memorial fund for the families of Miguel Orozco and Leticia Navarro has been established by local community leaders, with donations pouring in from residents across San Bernardino County.
More details are expected to emerge in the coming days as the investigation continues.