Armed man shot and killed by Irvine police called 911, was having a mental health crisis, police say

IRVINE, Calif. (KABC) -- A deadly police shooting unfolded in Irvine on Tuesday after police say an armed man experiencing a mental health crisis called 911.

The shooting happened in the Turtle Rock community just before noon, near the intersection of Sungate and Evening Breeze.

The 20-year-old man, who was ultimately shot, called 911 himself, according to Irvine police. They say he was experiencing a mental health crisis and threatening suicide, saying he was armed with a knife.

When police responded to the scene, they found him in the street with the knife. Irvine police say they tried de-escalating and negotiating with the man for more than an hour before he allegedly ran at officers with the knife, and the officer-involved shooting occurred.

The department's mental health assessment and resource team and crisis negotiators were at the scene, according to the department.

"After the officer-involved shooting, we rendered aid. The man was transported to a local hospital," said Officer Ziggy Azarcon with Irvine police.

In a later update, Irvine police said the man died at the hospital.

Police say one officer also sustained minor injuries, but details about how the officer was hurt were not provided.

Investigators say the knife was recovered. AIR7 video showed it lying in the middle of the street.

A mobile command unit blocked off access to the neighborhood as the investigation continued.

As Irvine police continue to investigate, the Orange County District Attorney's Office also arrived at the scene, which is standard protocol when an officer-involved shooting occurs.

The 20-year-old man shot and killed has not been identified, but police said they have been called to the neighborhood before.

If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide or are worried about a friend or loved one, help is available. Call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for free, confidential emotional support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.