Newly released body camera footage shows the intense exchange of gunfire that left a Pasadena police officer seriously injured and an armed suspect dead following a violent series of incidents near a Metro station in Southern California.
Authorities said the confrontation began around 7:30 p.m. on March 2 after officers responded to reports of a shooting near the Sierra Madre Villa Metro station in Pasadena.
Police say the suspect, later identified as 32-year-old Malcolm Buchanan, allegedly shot a victim in the shoulder before fleeing the area on foot.
Chase
According to Pasadena police, Officer Bryan Vasquez located Buchanan several blocks away shortly after the initial shooting report.
Body camera footage released by authorities shows Vasquez pursuing the suspect through a residential neighborhood before the encounter escalated into a gun battle in the street.
Residents nearby later told investigators they heard between 15 and 20 gunshots during the exchange.
Police said bullet damage was later discovered in a nearby brick wall and surrounding area.
During the shootout, Officer Vasquez was seriously wounded but survived.
Buchanan died at the scene, authorities confirmed.
Investigation
Police also released an image of the handgun investigators believe Buchanan used during the confrontation.
As the investigation continued, authorities disclosed additional allegations connected to the suspect’s actions before the shootout.
According to Pasadena police, witness cellphone footage appears to show Buchanan sexually assaulting a second victim shortly before officers confronted him.
Investigators said the video is now part of the ongoing case review.
Officials have not publicly released further details about the victims involved in the incidents near the Metro station.
Response
Pasadena Police Chief Gene Harris praised Officer Vasquez for continuing to respond during the encounter despite suffering serious injuries.
“The officer’s actions in that moment I think would be considered heroic,” Harris said during a public statement.
The police chief also acknowledged the dangers officers face during armed confrontations while noting that fatal outcomes remain tragic for everyone involved.
“It is always a tragedy anytime there is a loss of life,” Harris said. “That is not what we get into the business for.”
According to department officials, Vasquez has since been released from the hospital but remains on leave while recovering from his injuries.
Police said Vasquez has served with the Pasadena Police Department for approximately five years.
Mental Health
Family members of the suspect later spoke publicly following the shooting.
Buchanan’s grandmother told ABC7 that he had struggled with mental health issues and may not have been taking prescribed medication at the time of the incident.
Authorities have not confirmed whether mental health factors directly contributed to the events leading up to the confrontation.
Mental health concerns frequently arise in cases involving violent encounters, particularly when individuals experience untreated psychiatric conditions or behavioral crises.
Community
The incident has raised concerns among residents near the Metro station and surrounding neighborhoods, where witnesses described hearing rapid gunfire during the confrontation.
Police presence remained heavy in the area following the shooting as investigators collected evidence and interviewed witnesses.
Law enforcement officials said the investigation remains ongoing and includes reviews of body camera footage, witness video, forensic evidence, and officer actions during the shooting.
Authorities have not announced whether additional findings or reports will be released publicly.
The case highlights the unpredictable nature of police encounters involving armed suspects and the risks faced by officers and civilians during rapidly unfolding violent incidents.
FAQs
Where did the Pasadena shooting begin?
It started near the Sierra Madre Villa Metro station.
Who was the suspect in the case?
Police identified the suspect as Malcolm Buchanan.
Was the officer injured?
Yes, Officer Bryan Vasquez was seriously wounded.
Did the suspect survive the shootout?
No, the suspect died at the scene.
Is the investigation still ongoing?
Yes, Pasadena police continue investigating.
