PALMDALE, Calif. – A Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy was fatally shot while on duty in Palmdale on Saturday evening. The incident occurred near the intersection of Sierra Avenue and Avenue Q, authorities said. According to reports, Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, was found unconscious inside his patrol car by a good Samaritan.

The shooting is believed to be an ambush, with someone firing at Clinkunbroomer from a passing vehicle. He was rushed to Antelope Valley Medical Center in critical condition but succumbed to his injuries. Clinkunbroomer leaves behind his fiancée, parents, and grandparents.

Deputy Clinkunbroomer had joined the Palmdale station in 2018 and had recently become engaged. He hailed from a family with a long history of serving in the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Sheriff Robert Luna described him as a dedicated family member and a cherished member of the community.

The motive behind the shooting is unclear, and authorities are actively seeking information from the public to identify and locate the suspect. The investigation is looking into the possibility of surveillance footage capturing the incident. The sheriff called on the community to come forward with any information that could help bring justice to the fallen deputy.

The tragic loss of Deputy Clinkunbroomer serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers who tirelessly serve their community. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has asked for anyone with information about the incident to contact them or submit tips anonymously to L.A. Crime Stoppers.

(Information from the original article and The Associated Press contributed to this report)