News

Officer Involved in Fatal Shooting Terminated, Charges Filed

Published

4 years ago

March 18, 2021

Police investigate a fatal officer involved shooting on Woodland Avenue that claimed the life of Trevor Seever

MODESTO – Joseph Lamantia, who was involved in a fatal shooting that claimed the life of Trevor Seever on December 29th, was terminated from the Modesto Police Department and charged Thursday morning.

In a press release issued by the department, officials say that an administrative investigation determined Lamantia’s actions were in violation of department policies, procedures and training. The two and a half month investigation was presented to a department review board for use of force, which recommended the termination of Lamantia’s employment with the city.

“The actions of Officer Joseph Lamantia on December 29th, 2020 did not meet the high standards our community, our department, and I demand of our officers,” said Interim Police Chief Gillespie in the release. “The death of Trevor Seever is a tragedy for his family, friends and our community.”

The interim chief also stated that officers in the department work hard to build and maintain positive relationships, and understands that the incident has set the department back.

“Our department is dedicated to serving the public and committed to rebuilding any trust we have lost,” he added.

Lamantia was expected in Stanislaus County Superior Court Thursday afternoon, according to court records. A charge of 192(a) voluntary manslaughter was listed in court records. Jail records show him in custody Thursday afternoon on the charge with a bail set at $100,000. His next court date is scheduled for June.

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Turlock Police Officer Injured in Motorcycle Crash

Published

2 months ago

April 2, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

Photo: Turlock Police Department

TURLOCK – A Turlock Police Officer was injured when he was involved in a crash while trying to stop a speeding vehicle Tuesday.

The crash happened in the area of Palm Street and Hawkeye Avenue. The officer, whom authorities identified as Gavin Allison, had his lights and sirens on as he was trying to catch up to a speeding driver when he was involved in a collision with another motorist.

Officer Allison suffered moderate injuries that required stitches to his arm and leg, but is expected to make a full recovery. The other motorist involved in the crash was not injured. Drugs or alcohol do not appear to be a factor in the crash.

Anyone with information regarding the incident is encouraged to contact Officer Rocha at (209) 668-5550 extension 6130.

News

Traffic Collision Reported on Claus Road

Published

2 months ago

March 24, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

MODESTO – Emergency crews responded to a report of a vehicle collision on Claus Road Monday morning.

The crash was reported near the area of Claus Road and Cedar Creek Drive at about 8:00am. Early reports indicate a pickup truck and another vehicle collided before the pickup hit a tree.

Arriving personnel reported one motorist appeared to have a broken leg.

Expect momentary traffic delays in the area.

News

Merced County Crash Claims Lives of Ceres Man, Child

Published

2 months ago

March 23, 2025

Carlos Rodriguez

MERCED COUNTY – A 20 year old woman was arrested early Saturday morning on charges of DUI and vehicular manslaughter after a crash claimed the lives of two people.

The crash was reported at about 12:19am on Highway 165 near Turner Avenue. According to California Highway Patrol, 20 year old Melissa Rosales of Los Banos was driving a BMW SUV at high speeds south on Highway 165 when she crossed lanes at a curve. Her vehicle crashed into an oncoming Honda Accord driven by a 41 year old man from Ceres with a juvenile passenger. Both occupants of the Honda were killed in the crash.

Rosales suffered major injuries and was taken to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. Officials say she was under the influence at the time of the crash and faces DUI and vehicular manslaughter charges.

All involved persons were wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash.