Detective Randy Hoppert - Tulare County Sheriff's Office - California

On April 9, 2026, deputies and detectives from the Tulare County Sheriff's Office attempt to serve an eviction notice at 1713 W. Brian Lane in Porterville, California.

At around 10:20 a.m., while serving the eviction notice, the suspect began firing at deputies and detectives with a high-powered rifle.  When Detective Randy Hoppert arrived, he was struck by gunfire while he engaged in the shootout.  He was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds. 

The suspect remained barricaded and exited the home six hours later. He was fully camouflaged and was firing at officers throughout the neighborhood, stating that he would not surrender. A tactical vehicle ran him over.

Detective Randy Hoppert was a United States Navy veteran and had served with the Tulare County Sheriff's Office for six years. Survivors include his expectant wife. His father also served with the Tulare County Sheriff's Office, and his grandfather was an Undersheriff.

As part of our "Plaques for Heroes" mission, engraved slate memorial plaques were sent to the Tulare County Sheriff's Office and to Detective Randy Hoppert's at no cost to honor his service and his sacrifice to the community of Tulare County, California. Our condolences to his family, his department and the community he served.