A jury has found Kevin Salazar, 32, guilty of the murder of Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, who was tragically killed in a drive-by shooting at a traffic light close to the sheriff’s Palmdale station in 2023. The trial lasted a week, and the conviction brought relief to Clinkunbroomer’s family.

Details of the Incident

Clinkunbroomer, in uniform and driving a marked car, was waiting for a red light to change on September 16, 2023, when Salazar allegedly pulled up next to him and shot him with a .22 revolver. The deputy died afterward at a hospital. Authorities later apprehended Salazar at his family’s Palmdale home after a standoff, part of which was recorded on video.

Legal Proceedings and Reactions

The jury required only two and a half hours to convict Salazar of first-degree murder, including special charges of killing a peace officer, waiting to ambush, and shooting from a vehicle. However, the motive behind the murder remains unknown, said the family’s attorney.

Deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, 30, was engaged to be married at the time of his murder. His family described the immense pain of losing him. Deputy District Attorney Nathan Hochman expressed hope that the verdict brings some healing to Clinkunbroomer’s loved ones.

Community and Family Impact

Clinkunbroomer was part of a family with a law enforcement background. His grandfather, father, and brother all served. Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna praised Ryan’s dedication and service, affirming that his memory will be honored.

After his death, the family filed a $20 million wrongful death lawsuit against the county, citing understaffing and mandatory overtime as contributing factors to the incident. Although the county was dismissed from the lawsuit due to workers’ compensation protections, the family chose not to pursue additional civil action against Salazar.

In remembrance of Clinkunbroomer, a Department of Parks and Recreation sports complex was renamed in his honor in January 2026.