CHICO, CALIFORNIA: MICHAEL OXLEY, SUSPECT IN FATAL SHOOTING OF LOCAL BARBER GEORGE RAMIREZ III, FATALLY SHOT BY CHICO POLICE DURING SWAT OPERATION; OFFICERS INVOLVED PLACED ON ADMINISTRATIVE LEAVE AS INVESTIGATION CONTINUES
A tragic sequence of events unfolded in Chico, California, beginning with the shooting of local barber George Ramirez III on Friday evening, and culminating in the fatal shooting of suspect Michael Oxley by Chico Police during a SWAT operation early Sunday morning.
_The Shooting of George Ramirez III_
The incident began on Friday evening, when 43-year-old Michael Oxley allegedly shot 43-year-old George Ramirez III, a well-known barber in downtown Chico, in the Farmer’s Market parking lot on Flume Street.¹ Ramirez was sitting in his vehicle when a suspect approached from behind and fired multiple shots through the driver’s side window, striking him in the head, neck, and shoulder. The victim was rushed to an out-of-area hospital for emergency surgery and remains in critical condition.
_The Investigation and SWAT Operation_
Following an overnight investigation, Chico Police identified Oxley as the primary suspect and obtained an arrest warrant. Authorities determined that Oxley was staying at The Post, an off-campus student housing complex on Nord Avenue, as an Airbnb resident. On Saturday evening, officers attempted to take Oxley into custody, but he barricaded himself inside his apartment, prompting a lockdown of the housing complex.
_The Fatal Confrontation_
The situation escalated when Oxley fled to the parking structure, where SWAT officers contained him on a ramp between the fourth and fifth floors. Authorities reported that Oxley was crouching with a pistol equipped with an extended magazine. Despite a two-hour negotiation urging him to surrender, Oxley stood up and opened fire at officers. In response, six members of the Chico Police SWAT team returned fire, fatally wounding him [1).
_Officers Involved Placed on Administrative Leave_
The six officers involved in the incident have been placed on administrative leave, as per standard protocol for officer-involved shootings. The Butte County District Attorney’s Office and the Butte County Officer-Involved Shooting Protocol Team are investigating the fatal officer-involved shooting.
_The Investigation Continues_
Authorities have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the confrontation between SWAT officers and Oxley at The Post. The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates are expected as officials review the circumstances surrounding both shootings.
_Conclusion_
The Chico Police Department’s investigation into the fatal officer-involved shooting of Michael Oxley is ongoing. As the community comes to terms with the tragic events that unfolded, it is essential to remember the importance of supporting those affected by violence and working towards creating safer communities for all. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with George Ramirez III and his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.
