MENIFEE – On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at about 8:15 p.m., Menifee Police Officers responded to the 27000 block of Freedom Lane after receiving reports of a man threatening suicide. The man was identified as 57-year-old Menifee resident Dennis Martz, who was reported to be armed.
When officers arrived, they attempted to communicate with Martz but were unsuccessful. Members of the Crisis Negotiation Team also attempted contact, but Martz refused to respond. At the time of the incident, Martz was observed in his backyard in possession of multiple firearms.
During the response, Martz pointed a firearm at officers and an officer-involved shooting occurred. Martz was struck by gunfire, and once his weapons were secured, officers provided medical aid. Paramedics also responded, but despite lifesaving efforts, Martz succumbed to his injuries.
The two officers involved in the officer-involved shooting were not injured. Per department policy, the officers involved will be placed on paid administrative leave, pending an investigation.
In accordance with department policy, all officer-involved shootings are to be investigated by the Riverside County Force Investigations Detail, which includes representatives of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office.
