Suspected shooter killed in confrontation with law enforcement in Nipomo

SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY, Calif. - A suspected shooter who is believed to have opened fire in the parking lot of Vons in Nipomo Friday morning has been killed.

Law enforcement responded to an active shooter situation at the shopping center around 11:15 a.m.

The situation unfolded in the parking lot of Vons on the 500 block of West Tefft Street.

Witnesses reported seeing a man firing a handgun indiscriminately in the parking lot of the shopping center.

The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office said, upon deputies arrival, the shooter opened fire inside of the Vons gas station. He then exited the building and began shooting again.

Deputies and a CHP officer fired back. The shooter was pronounced dead at the scene.

The identity of the shooter has not yet been released pending notification of next of kin.

Law enforcement canvassed the entire area which included numerous businesses on both sides of W. Tefft and confirmed there were no injuries or further threats.

During the incident, the suspect reportedly made contact with a person driving a 4-door black hatchback vehicle on W. Tefft Street just east of Mary Avenue. Investigators are asking the driver of that vehicle to contact them with regards to this incident at 805-781-4500.

The Sheriff's Office is also asking for any witnesses or anyone who might have video of this incident to contact them at 805-781-4500.

Sheriff's personnel including Deputies, Detectives and Special Enforcement Detail (SED) responded to this incident alongside California Highway Patrol, the Regional Swat Team, FBI, State Fish and Wildlife, and CAL FIRE.

The southbound Tefft Street off-ramp was closed during the incident. People are still being urged to avoid this area while law enforcement conducts what is being called a large scale investigation.