David Haynes, a 30-year-old police officer from Richmond, CA, tragically lost his life on December 28, 1992. Officer Haynes, along with his colleague Officer Leonard W. Garcia, was shot and killed while responding to a domestic disturbance call early that morning. The incident occurred around 6:30 a.m., just half an hour before the officers were scheduled to end their shift.
The call involved a hostage situation, where the suspect, Jay Choe, had arrived at his ex-wife's apartment armed with a gun. Choe's daughter had called the police after hiding in a bedroom, prompting the officers' response.
Upon arrival, Officers Haynes and Garcia managed to help Choe's daughter out of the bedroom. However, when they attempted to free the other family members, Choe opened fire, fatally wounding both officers. Choe then shot and wounded his ex-wife and son before turning the gun on himself, committing suicide. This tragic event not only claimed the lives of two dedicated officers but also left a lasting impact on their families and the Richmond Police Department.
Officer Haynes had served with the Richmond Police Department for eight years and was known for his expertise in handling evidence, particularly fingerprints. He was also recognized for his compassion and religious devotion, having completed a one-year mission in Chile and being an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His death, along with that of Officer Garcia, was a significant loss to the community and the police force, as both men were committed to making a positive difference in their roles.
The investigation into the incident revealed that Choe had a history of domestic disputes with his ex-wife. Ironically, Officer Haynes had previously confiscated a rifle from Choe two years prior, which had led to Choe's imprisonment for a year. This background added a layer of complexity to the case, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in dealing with domestic violence situations. The Richmond Police Department and the community mourned the loss of Officers Haynes and Garcia, remembering them for their dedication, bravery, and the ultimate sacrifice they made in the line of duty.
