Pasadena officer accidentally shoots colleague during “horseplay,”

A newly released video from the Pasadena Police Department shows a patrol officer accidentally shooting a fellow officer during what Police Chief Gene Harris called “unsafe and out-of-policy horseplay” inside the department’s parking garage.

The incident occurred on Sept. 7, 2025, but the footage was only made public recently after new evidence prompted further internal action.

According to reporting from the Los Angeles Times, a police cruiser pulled into the department’s parking garage where two uniformed officers were standing near a police SUV. As the cruiser approached, one of the officers on foot drew his handgun and pointed it at the incoming vehicle in what Harris later described as “inappropriate” behavior. He then reholstered the weapon and smiled alongside his colleague.

Moments later, the officer driving the cruiser drew his own firearm. The weapon discharged, sending a round through the windshield and into the shoulder of the officer who had just holstered his gun. That officer sustained significant injuries but has since recovered. The officer whose weapon discharged is no longer employed by the department.

The shooting triggered an internal investigation, and the video was initially withheld under an exception to California’s 45‑day release rule for critical incident footage, with Harris citing the need to protect the integrity of the investigation. The video was ultimately released after a witness came forward with additional information, leading to more officers being placed on leave.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo condemned the conduct, stating:

“This type of unprofessional behavior is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated. The police chief assures me the incident has been thoroughly investigated and appropriate discipline taken, and I support the chief’s decisions.”

The department has emphasized that “horseplay” and failure to follow safety protocols will not be tolerated, framing the release of the video as part of its commitment to transparency and public trust.

source: https://www.uexpress.com/oddities/news-of-the-weird/2026/06/19

via LA Times