SACRAMENTO — A little before 7:15 a.m. on January 26, 2016, Sheriff’s deputies responded to assist a motor officer from the Elk Grove Police Department in the area of Sandstone Sea Way in South Sacramento. The Elk Grove Police officer asked for assistance after reporting shots fired during a vehicle stop of a reported stolen vehicle.
The Elk Grove Police Department Communication Center received a call from a victim who stated his car was stolen from his driveway. The victim further advised he located the vehicle and suspect driving in the area, and further provided information and location for responding units.
An Elk Grove motor officer located the suspect and stolen vehicle in the area of Garnet Peak Way, and attempted to conduct an enforcement stop. The suspect pulled into a dead end court. With the officer directly behind the suspect vehicle, the suspect put the vehicle in reverse and accelerated striking the officer on his motorcycle. The officer then discharged his firearm at the suspect. The suspect was taken into custody, and immediately administered first aid for his injuries. Sacramento Metro Fire personnel responded and transported the suspect to a local hospital.
The suspect of the assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer was identified as Lance Bernaix, 23, of Sacramento. He is currently in critical but stable condition.
The involved officer is currently assigned to patrol services and is a 14 year veteran of the Elk Grove Police Department. The officer’s injuries were such that he did not require medical treatment.
