Bakersfield police release bodycam footage of officer-involved shooting during pursuit
By: On June 13, 2022, Robert Vaughn was sought by Bakersfield Police officers for reports of him with handgun in the 2300 block of Panama Lane.
As seen in new bodycam officer footage provided to Eyewitness News Wednesday, officers attempted to contact Vaughn, but he fled on foot, then shot at officers during a pursuit.
Several gunshots can be heard in the video but no one was injured, per a BPD press release from June.
Vaughn was eventually found in the 6800 block of Lowry Street under a black SUV per the video. Police said Vaughn's firearm was recovered and was determined not injured after he was released from the hospital.
Officer Johnson was involved in the shooting and has been with the department about a year, according to police.
According to court documents, Vaugh faces several felonies including two counts of attempted murder, possession of a firearm by a felon and grand theft firearm.
He is due in court August 1 at 9 a.m. for a preliminary hearing. His bail is set at $1 million.
"Our commitment to community trust requires openness and transparency in all matters, especially the use of deadly force by a police officer. While this investigation has moved to a point where it is practical to release this information, the matter is still under review," said Bakersfield Chief of Police Greg Terry in a statement.
“The public has a legitimate interest in obtaining timely and accurate information about police shootings, and the Bakersfield Police Department is committed to making that information available. We will release the body worn camera footage of officers in critical incidents as soon as it is possible to do so without compromising an investigation. This is our commitment to accountability and professionalism," said Terry.