Payam Javan: A routine traffic stop in San Jose on Monday evening escalated into a fatal confrontation when a man armed with a knife charged at Santa Clara County Sheriff’s deputies. The incident occurred around 7:28 p.m. on October 27, 2025, near the intersection of Fruitdale Avenue and Leigh Avenue. Deputies initially stopped the man for a vehicle code violation, but the driver quickly became uncooperative and barricaded himself inside the car.

For more than two hours, deputies issued repeated commands and made multiple attempts to de-escalate the situation. Members of the Sheriff’s Psychiatric Emergency Response Team (PERT) were also called to assist in managing what appeared to be a mental health crisis.

Despite ongoing efforts and the use of several less-lethal tools and projectiles, the man refused to surrender. Eventually, he exited the vehicle holding a knife and charged toward deputies. Two deputies—one a 24-year veteran and the other with nine years of service—fired their weapons in response. A knife was later recovered at the scene.

Sheriff Robert Jonsen said the deputies “utilized every available resource to de-escalate the encounter safely and effectively” and emphasized the department’s commitment to preserving life and ensuring community safety. Deputies and paramedics immediately began life-saving measures, but the man was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital at 10:16 p.m.

The San Jose Police Department is leading the investigation since the shooting occurred within city limits. The Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office will conduct an independent review. Sheriff Jonsen added that a “full and transparent review is in progress,” extending condolences to all affected and reaffirming the department’s dedication to accountability and public transparency.