A Jamaican man was shot dead by a California State Parks officer on Friday, Jan. 26, after he allegedly crashed a vehicle and wielded a knife outside a hotel near Palisades Tahoe in Olympic Valley.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office has identified the man as Vinton Miller, a 29-year-old employee of Palisades Tahoe, who was staying in the United States on a work visa.
The fatal encounter unfolded around 10 a.m. in Tahoe City after state law enforcers attempted to stop a vehicle that was involved in a carjacking. A police chase ensued, which led to Miller crashing near the Olympic Valley Inn and the Olympic Village Event Center.
According to reports, Miller exited the vehicle wielding a knife, prompting the State Parks officer to open fire. Despite attempts by State Parks and California Highway Patrol officers to provide medical aid, Miller was pronounced dead at the scene.
Vinton Miller’s LinkedIn profile, listed under the name Vinton Jay Miller, indicates his experience as a line cook at Palisades Tahoe.
Palisades Tahoe spokesperson Patrick Lacey confirmed the Jamaican’s employment and expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts go out to his family and friends during this challenging time.”
The identity of the officer involved in the shooting has not been disclosed.
In accordance with department policy, the officer has been placed on administrative leave, as confirmed by Gloria Sandoval, Deputy Director of Public Affairs with the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
“This is all of the information that I can provide to you at this time,” Sandoval wrote in an email.
