Man Killed By Police Escaped From Work Camp

Ada County authorities on Tuesday identified Mario Louis Jaramillo, 20, as the man shot to death by police the night before during a downtown foot chase after he fired several shots at officers and bystanders.

Nevada prison authorities confirmed that Jaramillo, who listed a Las Vegas address, walked away last October from a work camp at Carlin, in Elko County, Nev.

Jaramillo was convicted of assault and battery in 1993. A probation violation sent him to prison in April 1995.

Police, responding to a report of a “suspicious subject” at a local restaurant, spotted a man who displayed a gun, fled on foot and then stole a car. After a short chase, the car crashed into a light pole, police said.

Police believe the man had reloaded his handgun before turning to face them as they fired the fatal shot or shots about 9:25 p.m., Boise police Lt. Jim Tibbs said.

“They had to shoot,” Tibbs said.

Witnesses said they heard about a dozen shots.

“It was just like an old Western,” said Joe Parra, who watched police as they ran after the suspect. “They said, ‘Put your gun down.”’ Tibbs said Tuesday Jaramillo was pronounced dead at a local hospital of multiple gunshot wounds.

He said Jaramillo exchanged gunfire with officers at several times and locations. Because the investigation continues, he said the location and number of shots will not be release.

Both officers involved have been placed on paid administrative leave pending completion of an investigation.