The San Diego Police Department has identified the suspects and detective involved in the recent deputy-involved shooting in National City. Last Friday, San Diego Sheriff’s deputies stopped a white Acura with three occupants – two men and a woman. One of the men fled the vehicle on foot, leading to a search by law enforcement.
The male driver, Dominic Dimaio, and the female occupant, Whitney Cowan, were arrested and booked into county jail for narcotics-related charges and being felons in possession of body armor. The missing suspect, Gene Stewart, was seen running through a Dodge dealership and getting into a parked tow truck. Detective Douglas Akers, a 35-year veteran of the San Diego Sheriff’s Office, confronted Stewart, who fired at least one round at him, injuring Akers with broken glass.
In response, Akers returned fire, resulting in Stewart’s death at the scene. The SDPD Homicide Unit is investigating the shooting, and the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office will review the case to determine any criminal liability on Akers’ part. The detective’s use of force will also be investigated by the SDSO, with oversight from the FBI and the US Attorney’s Office.
The investigation is ongoing as detectives gather evidence and interview witnesses to piece together the events leading up to the shooting. The outcome of the investigation will determine the next steps in holding those involved accountable for their actions. The community is urged to remain patient as law enforcement works to uncover the truth behind this tragic incident.
