In response to the unfortunate death of Andrés Guardado, Los Angeles County has agreed to make an $8 million settlement to his family. According to Cristobal Guardado, “While the settlement negotiated with the County of Los Angeles brings an end to the civil action that lasted more than two years, it does not offer peace to our family or justice for our son, Andrés.” When the ongoing investigations are finished and Deputy Miguel Vega is held legally accountable for Andrés’ death, only then will there be peace and justice.
On June 18, 2020, an undercover deputy shot the 18-year-old Guardado multiple times in the back while he was doing his security guard duties in Gardena. His family’s lawyers said that just before being shot, he was talking with two women.
Deputies confronted Guardado when he produced a firearm in front of an auto body shop, according to the agency. They pursued him into an alley, where Deputy Miguel Vega shot and killed him. The family’s lawyers assert that Guardado posed no danger.
The fatal shooting is still under investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office.
