TUSTIN, Calif. — A tragic shooting in the early hours of Friday morning has left a community in shock after an off-duty Orange County Sheriff’s deputy fatally shot his roommate, allegedly mistaking her for an intruder.
The incident occurred around 5 a.m. at the Axiom Apartments, located in the 13000 block of Tustin East Drive. Police say the victim, 35-year-old Brittany Shaw, was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds inside the residence. She was transported to Orange County Global Medical Center, where she was later pronounced dead.
Shaw, a respected employee of the Orange County Health Care Agency, had been living with the deputy at the time of the incident. County officials confirmed she served as the correctional health services chief at the Intake Release Center, where she had worked for six years overseeing medical care for newly booked inmates.
According to investigators, Shaw had been walking her dog early Friday morning. Upon returning to the apartment, the off-duty deputy reportedly believed she was an intruder and opened fire.
Neighbors described being startled awake by the sound of gunfire. “It woke me up,” said Richard Givens, who lives in the same building. “I heard several loud shots and someone in distress. I stayed in bed at first, not knowing what was happening.”
A makeshift memorial, including a cross and candles, has since been placed outside the apartment building in Shaw’s memory.
Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner and Health Care Agency Director Veronica Kelley both expressed their condolences, noting Shaw’s dedication and professionalism. “Her loss will be felt deeply throughout all levels of the HCA and the county family,” Kelley wrote in a memo to staff.
Some residents have voiced confusion over how such a fatal mistake could occur between roommates. “It’s kind of odd that your roommate would accidentally shoot you,” said neighbor Gerry Geroca. “You live together — you should know who’s coming in the door.”
The deputy involved has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. Tustin Police and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office are continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses to determine whether criminal charges will be filed.