The family of a 37-year-old Redlands man, Jefte Vargas Ramirez, has filed a $30 million wrongful death claim against the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department over his fatal shooting on December 16, 2024.
Ramirez was on the Metrolink rail lines between Nevada and California Streets in Redlands when Metro workers reported a trespasser at about 7:30 a.m.
According to initial reports, officers arrived on scene and encountered Ramirez walking along the rail lines. A male deputy ordered him to leave; however, Ramirez allegedly became confrontational, approaching the officer with his arms outstretched. The deputy fired at Ramirez, reportedly discharging at least nine rounds. Ramirez was transported to a hospital, where he later died.
The Redlands shooting has sparked intense grief among family members, who describe Ramirez as a devoted father and a hard-working man. He is survived by his two daughters, parents, and siblings.
The wrongful death claim accuses the sheriff’s department of failing to prevent an unnecessary loss of life and holds the department accountable for what the family deems an unjustified use of lethal force.
Authorities have yet to release further details about the deputy involved, and the investigation remains ongoing. The department has 45 days to respond to the claim before the family pursues a federal lawsuit alleging violations of state and federal law.
