CHP releases dash cam images of officer shooting during West Covina traffic stop

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- The California Highway Patrol released dash cam images of a shooting that left an officer injured during a traffic stop in West Covina earlier this month.

One of the pictures shows CHP Officer Felix Serpas approaching a vehicle during the traffic stop, which took place around 1:30 a.m. on Sept. 11 on the 10 Freeway at Sunset and Garvey avenues.

CHP detectives say before Serpas could barely say good evening to the motorist, the driver opened fire on Serpas and his partner, who was standing nearby.

In two other photos released by CHP, the driver, identified as 30-year-old John Garcia, is seen wielding a shotgun.

"Our officer tactically retreated. The suspect exited with a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun and continued his deliberate aggressive and premeditated attack in his attempt to murder our officers," said CHP Assistant Chief Marc Shaw at a Wednesday news conference.

Detectives say the officers returned fire and wounded Garcia, who still managed to get back in his vehicle and take off. He was later caught and arrested after a police pursuit that ended in Fontana.

Serpas, a six-year veteran of the CHP, was shot several times. His partner was not wounded. Detectives say Serpas will recover from his wounds.

Garcia, who is also recovering from his wounds, faced a judge Wednesday in a wheelchair. He entered a plea of not guilty to attempted murder and other charges. His bail was set at more than $2 million.

"This incident highlights the dangers of being in law enforcement," said CHP Chief Calvin Aubrey.

Detectives say they do not know why Garcia allegedly opened fire on the officers. They say although he has a prior criminal history, he did not have any outstanding warrants.

They say officers pulled Garcia over because he was driving erratically and speeding. Upon searching his vehicle, investigators say they found multiple weapons including the shotgun he allegedly fired at officers.

Investigators said the shooting appears to be part of a disturbing growing assault on officers nationwide.

"Right now, we've seen a huge uptick in the number of assaults on officers particularly with gunfire," Shaw said.

Detectives say Garcia had an Uber sticker in the window of his vehicle. Investigators have been in contact with the ride sharing service and are investigating whether Garcia was actually employed by the company.