NEWMAN, Calif. — The Stanislaus County Sheriff told local media Thursday the suspect wanted in the shooting death of a police officer is in United States illegally.
The sheriff said investigators have identified the suspect but are not releasing his name due to the circumstances.
Newman Police Officer Ronil Singh (33) was shot and killed during a traffic stop just before 1:00 AM on Wednesday morning 12/26/18. At 12:57 AM, Officer Singh called off on a traffic stop at Merced Street and Eucalyptus Avenue in Newman. A few moments later he called out “shots fired” over the radio. Multiple agencies responded to assist and Singh was found at the scene with gunshot wounds. He was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
The suspect fled the scene in his vehicle prior to assisting officer’s arrival. A gray, extended cab Dodge Ram pickup was seen in the area at the time of the shooting—police later recovered the truck.
Officer Singh was a native of Fiji and has been employed by Newman Police Department since July 2011.
“Our Newman Police family is devastated by the loss of Ronil,” said Newman Police Chief Randy Richardson. “If anyone has any information regarding the identity of the suspect, please contact law enforcement immediately so we can get this cop-killer off the streets.”
If you have any tips, you can leave an anonymous tip by calling Crime Stoppers at (209) 521-4636. Tipsters can also e-mail tips at http://www.modestopolice.com/CrimeStoppers, or text them to CRIMES (274637) by typing “Tip704” plus the message and be eligible for a cash reward
