The individual suspected in the ambush killing of a Palmdale sheriff’s deputy reportedly grapples with mental health challenges, including schizophrenia and auditory hallucinations, as disclosed by his family.

Kevin Cantaneo Salazar, aged 29, was apprehended at his Palmdale residence during the early hours of Monday, following an extended standoff with sheriff’s deputies. Tear gas was employed to compel his surrender.

According to investigators, Salazar is believed to have driven up behind Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer and launched an ambush-style attack with gunfire on Saturday night.

A passerby discovered the deputy unconscious in his vehicle and promptly alerted authorities. Regrettably, Deputy Clinkunbroomer was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

Before the suspect’s arrest, Sheriff Robert Luna referred to the assailant, then unidentified, as a “coward,” emphasizing the absence of prior warning and a discernible motive, ABC7 reported.

“This is absolutely unacceptable,” Luna said Sunday. “Without warning, he was murdered while serving our community.”

Salazar’s family conveys that if he is indeed responsible for this crime, they recognize that he must face the legal consequences. However, they contend that his alleged actions may be rooted in mental illness.

“We just want you guys to know my brother has schizophrenia, he’s bipolar,” said the suspect’s sister, Jessica Salazar. “He was diagnosed with schizophrenia. A lot of people that have family members out there are going to understand.”

“He would feel persecuted, voices talking to him. He tried committing suicide once or twice.”

Investigations also reveal that the suspect had recently been involved in a road rage incident, and authorities are exploring any potential links or connections between this incident and the shooting.

Written by staff