By Associated Press
MODESTO, Calif. — A former security guard suspected of fatally shooting a sheriff’s deputy and locksmith during an eviction in California died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, Modesto police said Tuesday.
James Ferrario, 45, killed himself before his body was found in the burnt ruins of a Modesto apartment building where he had barricaded himself, police said.
Detectives discovered Ferrario’s body in a bathroom next to a stockpile of 22 firearms, 500 rounds of ammunition, a police scanner and several gallons of water. He was wearing a bulletproof vest, gas mask and makeshift ballistic protective padding, as well as a tear gas canister strapped to his leg, police said.
“From all evidence, it appears Ferrario planned on engaging in a violent confrontation with the deputies who appeared that day,” police Chief Michael Harden said in a statement.
Stanislaus County Deputy Robert Paris and locksmith Glendon David Engert were gunned down after they arrived at the apartment to evict Ferrario on Thursday, five days after an eviction notice was posted on his door.
The shootings set off an 11-hour standoff with law enforcement that culminated with a fire engulfing the building, which is scheduled for demolition this week, officials said.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Modesto Fire Department are investigating whether Ferrario started the fire or if it was unintentionally set by law enforcement.
Funeral arrangements for the slain deputy have been scheduled for Friday at Big Valley Grace Community Church in Modesto.
Copyright 2012 Associated Press