Off‑Duty Detective Stops High‑Speed Pursuit, Secures Arrest of Suspected Deputy Killer

An off‑duty San Bernardino County detective halted a high‑speed chase on the 210 Freeway in Upland, stopping a motorcycle rider who had fled after allegedly killing a deputy.

The Pursuit

The chase began on the 210 Freeway in Upland, where the suspect was traveling nearly at 200 miles per hour. Authorities had been alerted to a motorcyclist who had run away from deputies after a fatal shooting. The pursuit escalated quickly, creating a dangerous situation for other drivers. The suspect’s vehicle was a motorcycle, and he was attempting to evade arrest for domestic violence. The rapid speed and the location on a busy freeway heightened the urgency of the situation.

Detective Shaun Wallen

Off‑duty detective Shaun Wallen intervened by using his own car to clip the suspect’s motorcycle. “I basically heard what was going on. I was in a position to do something, and I did,” Wallen said. “I was off duty at the time. As police officers, off duty doesn’t always mean off duty.” His decisive action prevented the suspect from reaching the freeway’s exit ramps, allowing deputies to safely apprehend him.

Background on the Incident

The suspect, Angelo Jose Saldivar, was charged with the murder of Deputy Andrew Nunez. Deputy Nunez was responding to a domestic call involving Saldivar on Oct. 27 when he was killed. Saldivar also faces an allegation of felony evasion for running away from deputies to evade arrest. The charges stem from the fatal shooting and the subsequent escape attempt.

Wallen’s Heroic Legacy

Wallen’s reputation for bravery dates back a decade. When he was a deputy 10 years ago, he was part of the team that took down the husband and wife who killed 14 people and injured 22 in the San Bernardino terror attack. “There was a large volley of gunfire. I remember the male suspect running from the front of the car,” Wallen recalled. “He ran northbound, and I just shot as fast as I could until I ran out of rounds.”

Recognition and Awards

For his actions in October, Wallen received two law‑enforcement honors. He was also presented with the Public Safety Officer Medal of Valor by President Donald Trump in 2018. These accolades recognize his willingness to act decisively in life‑threatening situations.

Wallen’s Perspective

Despite the accolades, Wallen does not relish the spotlight. “Law enforcement, in my opinion, is a very humble noble profession,” he said. He emphasized that officers share a common mindset: doing what they can for the public, partners, and teammates. Wallen also said he takes his oath seriously, striving to make right decisions and “do the right things for the right reasons.” He added, “We have an obligation to protect the public and partners, just like we have obligations to protect our families.”

Key Takeaways

• Off‑duty detective Shaun Wallen stopped a high‑speed pursuit on the 210 Freeway.
• The suspect, Angelo Jose Saldivar, is charged with the murder of Deputy Andrew Nunez and felony evasion.
• Wallen’s career includes participation in the 2010 San Bernardino terror attack response and receipt of the Medal of Valor.

The incident underscores the readiness of law‑enforcement officers to act, even when off duty, to safeguard the public and uphold justice.