Man fatally shot by San Luis Obispo police after reports of gun; weapon later found to be replica,

A man was shot and killed by a San Luis Obispo police officer Saturday afternoon after multiple 911 callers reported a male shouting aggressively and waving a firearm, according to the San Luis Obispo Police Department.

The incident began around 4:46 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, when dispatchers received reports of a male in the 900 block of El Capitan Way.

Responding officers located the man near the intersection of Poinsettia Street and Bluebell Way, where he was “actively yelling and holding what appeared to be a handgun,” the department said.

An officer “confronting the threat” discharged their weapon, striking the man once. Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity will be released after next-of-kin notifications. No officers or other community members were injured.

An initial investigation determined the firearm was a replica, police said. Under state law and department policy, incidents involving simulated firearms are investigated by the California Department of Justice.

The department said it will cooperate fully and will release body-worn camera footage in accordance with Assembly Bill 748.

“Any loss of life is tragic. The San Luis Obispo Police Department acknowledges and is saddened by the impact of this incident on those involved, their families, our employees, and our community,” the statement read.

The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave, consistent with department policy. The investigation is ongoing.

The department posted the update at 10 p.m. Saturday and said more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Anyone seeking information can contact Deputy Chief Brian Amoroso at 805-781-8016. Incident #260228068.