Executive Summary
- Contra Costa DA clears Richmond officers in the August 4, 2025, fatal shooting.
- Angel Montaño Magallan was armed with two knives and advancing on police.
- Officers Nicholas Remick and Stocking fired when the suspect was 5-10 feet away.
- The investigation concluded the use of deadly force was reasonable.
MARTINEZ, California – The Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office has formally cleared Richmond Police officers of criminal liability regarding the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Angel Alexander Montaño Magallan in August 2025, concluding that the use of deadly force was reasonable under the circumstances.
According to the official report released by District Attorney Diana Becton, the incident began on August 4, 2025, when Richmond Police Department Dispatch received a 911 call regarding a domestic disturbance. Investigators state the caller, Magallan’s brother, reported that Magallan was armed with a knife and threatening to kill both him and their mother. The report notes that the caller also disclosed Magallan’s history of mental illness.
Police records indicate that multiple officers responded and staged nearby to formulate a plan. While awaiting resources, officers received information that family members were unable to leave the apartment because Magallan was blocking the front door, raising concerns of a hostage situation. As officers approached the residence, Magallan’s mother reportedly screamed from inside, causing law enforcement to believe an assault was in progress.
Upon opening the door, Officer Nicholas Remick observed Magallan standing over his family members, holding an object. The District Attorney’s report details that Magallan immediately advanced toward the officer, wielding a knife in each hand. Despite Officer Remick’s repeated commands to stop and his attempt to retreat, Magallan continued to advance. Investigators determined that when Magallan closed the distance to within five to ten feet, Officer Remick and Officer Stocking discharged their firearms, fatally striking him. Police confirmed that the family members inside were physically unharmed.
It is important to note that all individuals named in criminal investigations or accusations are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Investigative Conclusion
The release of this report satisfies the countywide protocol requiring an independent investigation by the District Attorney’s Office into all officer-involved fatal incidents. By determining the use of force was justified, the DA’s office has effectively closed the legal inquiry into the actions of Officers Remick and Stocking. This procedural step is designed to ensure adherence to use-of-force standards and maintain community transparency regarding police conduct in high-stakes interventions.
