California deputy fatally shot during traffic stop, suspect had ‘extensive criminal history’

The shooting led to a massive manhunt for the suspect, who was then shot and killed by police.

During a Thursday night press conference, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco identified the deputy as Isaiah Cordero and said the department is "deeply heartbroken" over the loss.

"He certainly embodied our motto of service before self," Bianco said of the 32-year-old deputy.

Cordero, the first Riverside County deputy killed in the line of duty in over 10 years, was fatally shot during a traffic stop at approximately 2 pm near the 3900 block of Golden West Avenue in Jurupa Valley, California. He was approaching the vehicle when the driver pulled a gun out and shot him.

According to Bianco a community member saw the shooting, dialed 911, and stayed with the fallen deputy until paramedics arrived.

During the conference, Bianco identified the suspect as 54-year-old William Shae McKay, who had an extensive criminal history in the state going back over 22 years.

Bianco added that the manhunt for McKay ended quickly when he was located driving in San Bernardino County during a pursuit back into Riverside County. A spike strip was deployed, damaging both of his rear tires, yet he continued driving until his vehicle became disabled. He then began shooting at deputies who returned fire, killing him.

McKay was recently pursued by authorities in California in March 2021 in connection with a felony kidnapping warrant. He was arrested after stabbing a California Highway Patrol K-9, who took him down after his car was disabled by a spike strip while attempting to flee on foot. Sam, the K-9, survived the attack.

According to Bianco, McKay was convicted of his third strike in November 2021 in connection with the stabbing and should have been sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. However, before sentencing, the judge lowered his bail and he was released.

Shortly thereafter McKay was arrested for failure to appear at sentencing but the same judge allowed him to be released again.

Bianco said, "We would not be here today if the judge had done her job.” He would not name the judge but noted she is a San Bernardino County jurist.

Cordero was hired by Riverside County as a correctional deputy in May 2014 and started the 204 Basic Academy in February 2018. He was promoted to a sworn deputy sheriff upon completion of the program and had just graduated from Motor School in September.

He had been working as a motorcycle deputy for approximately three months when he was killed.

The Riverside Sheriff's Association said in a statement, "We are devastated by the grief of losing Deputy Isaiah Cordero, a deputy who was a ray of sunshine in the Riverside Sheriff's Department, a person who was dedicated to protecting others. Once again, we face a tragic reminder of the selflessness and unwavering courage required of peace officers and their families.

"Deputy Cordero put on his uniform daily to make a difference in his community and keep families safe. Deputy Cordero's death leaves a tremendous hole in the hearts of so many people who had the chance to know him personally. Today, Deputy Cordero made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty — a debt that can never be repaid. We must honor his memory and life of public service through our words and actions. Our heart goes out to his family, friends, and fellow deputies through this difficult time."

Deputy Cordero is survived by his parents, an older stepbrother, and his girlfriend.