SAN FRANCISCO—On July 24, Bay Area resident Mark Estrada, suspected of fatally shooting a Hayward police officer at a traffic stop, was formally charged with murder.
Estrada is accused of shooting Sergeant Scott Lunger, 48, of the Hayward Police Department during a traffic stop on Wednesday, July 22. Lunger pulled over a white Chevy Silverado truck after he saw it driving erratically through a residential neighborhood. An altercation ensued, and the driver of the vehicle shot Lunger. A second officer at the scene returned fire and hit the fleeing suspect, officials confirmed during a Hayward City Hall news conference.
Lunger later died of his wounds at Eden Medical Center in the Castro Valley.
Following his death, there was an expression of support from the community, including from Vice President Joe Biden.
During the investigation of the incident, police discovered a 9mm handgun and unused ammunition at the crime scene. A search of Estrada’s home revealed more ammunition and casings. Further investigation discovered that Estrada was treated for a gunshot wound at the San Jeandro Hospital. Estrada has not provided any official statements and his motive for the crime is yet to be determined.
Police are currently investigating Estrada for possible gang ties, and are therefore withholding the name of the second officer at the scene due to security concerns.
Estrada is being held without bail, and, if convicted, may face the death penalty or life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Lunger is the third law enforcement fatality in 2015. He reportedly loved his job, and was well-liked by his colleagues. He leaves behind two college-age daughters.
According to Hayward PD, funeral services will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, at Neighborhood Church in Castro Valley.
