Dramatic newly released footage captures the chaotic moment Oxnard police officers opened fire on a machete-wielding suspect inside a restaurant after terrified patrons scrambled to escape.
The violent confrontation happened April 20 near Saviers and Pleasant Valley roads, where officers responded to reports of a man swinging a machete in the area.
Authorities identified the suspect as Anastacio Meneses.
The Oxnard Police Department released body-worn camera and security footage. YouTube/Oxnard Police
The incident occurred inside El Fortin, a restaurant on Saviers Road. YouTube/Oxnard Police
Police received reports of the suspect threatening bystanders with the machete. YouTube/Oxnard PoliceBy the time police arrived, Meneses was inside the restaurant.
Officers were able to evacuate several people from the business, but police said two employees remained trapped inside.
Video from the scene shows the suspect grabbing the machete and hoisting a table before moving toward officers.
One officer then fired, sending Meneses to the floor.
The suspect threatened bystanders with the machete. YouTube/Oxnard PoliceMoments later, Meneses got back up and rushed at officers again, prompting additional gunfire.
Police then deployed a K-9 unit to drag the suspect out of the restaurant.
During the struggle, the dog was struck by the machete, authorities said.
Meneses was ultimately taken into custody and transported from the scene.
The injured police dog later recovered and has since returned to duty. No other injuries were reported.
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