Detective Randy Hoppert was shot and killed while responding to officers who were met with gunfire while serving an eviction notice.
Around 10:20 a.m., deputies were serving an eviction notice at 1713 W Brian Lane in Porterville when the subject shot at them with a high-powered rifle. When Detective Hoppert arrived, he was struck by gunfire while he engaged in the shootout with the suspect. He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.
The suspect remained barricaded and exited the home six hours later. He was fully camouflaged and was firing at officers throughout the neighborhood, stating that he would not surrender. A tactical vehicle ran him over.
Detective Hoppert was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office for six years. Survivors include his expectant wife. His father also served with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, and his grandfather was an Undersheriff.
