Authorities in California are currently on the hunt for Derek Spencer, a 44-year-old man accused of murder and showing aggressive behavior. The Placer County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning about Spencer, who is armed and considered dangerous.

Spencer’s alleged offenses include brandishing a firearm at individuals in Placer County. On Sunday, deputies encountered him in Iowa Hill. During this encounter, Spencer rammed a patrol vehicle and escaped, intensifying the search efforts.

Search Efforts and Warning

Residents in the Iowa Hill area have been advised to lock their doors and stay indoors due to the potential threat posed by Spencer. The Sheriff’s Office has highlighted the difficulty of the search. The area is vast, with dense forest and challenging terrain.

“The search is very challenging due to the area being very large, with dense forest and steep, rugged terrain,” said the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.

Throughout the pursuit, Spencer fired shots at law enforcement officers and helicopters involved in the operation. Fortunately, no officers sustained injuries.

Discovery of Murder Victim

A grim discovery was made when deputies found a deceased woman during the ongoing search. They believe Spencer is responsible for her death. This discovery occurred in a home previously cleared by tactical teams.

“As tactical teams worked to clear a home where Spencer had been earlier in the search, they located an adult female who had been shot and killed inside the home,” deputies reported.

Law Enforcement Collaboration

Several law enforcement agencies are assisting in the search efforts. Teams are determined to continue searching through the night, with the goal of apprehending Spencer and ensuring public safety.

The Sheriff’s Office described Spencer as a bald man with a goatee.