RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENTSheriff Chad Bianco |
| Press Release: | Murder Suicide
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| Station Area: | Palm Springs |
| Written Date: | February 15, 2020 | Time: | 7:30 AM |
| Incident Date: | February 14, 2020 | Time: | 9:34 AM |
| Incident Location: | 71500 Block of Highway 111, Rancho Mirage
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| Reporting Officer: | Sergeant Ben Ramirez |
| File Number(s): | S200450021 |
On February 14, 2020, at about 9:34 AM, deputies responded to a report of shots fired at a business in the 71500 block of Highway 111, Rancho Mirage. Upon arrival deputies found two males with gunshot wounds in the business, with several witnesses and business patrons inside. Both subjects were pronounced deceased at the scene. Deputies ensured there were no additional suspects or injured victims, and secured the crime scene. Investigators from the Palm Desert Station arrived and began interviewing witnesses. The Central Homicide Unit responded and assumed the investigation.
The investigation determined the suspect, Walter Carter, 63 years of Desert Hot Springs, entered the business and shot the victim multiple times, then shot himself. The victim was identified as David Duffner, 67 years of Palm Springs.
This is an active investigation and no additional details will be released at this time. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department encourages anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Central Homicide Investigator A. Munoz at (951) 955-2777.
Citizens may also submit a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is seeking applicants for Deputy Sheriff, Deputy Sheriff Trainee, Correctional Deputy, Sheriff’s 911 Communications Officer, and other employment opportunities such as clerical and support positions. If you are interested in a career with us, please apply at www.joinrsd.org or call 1-888-Join-RSD |