A renewed investigation has been launched into a September police shooting in Pasadena after new witness information emerged, prompting several officers to be placed on administrative leave, Police Chief Gene Harris announced Monday.

The incident involved Officer Roy Alatorre, who fired a shot at a fellow officer in a parking garage located at 240 Ramona Street on September 7, 2025. The shooting occurred around 6:18 p.m. and was initially described by Harris as “unsafe and out-of-policy horseplay.” At that time, Alatorre was no longer employed by the department, and the Los Angeles County district attorney’s office was reviewing whether criminal charges were warranted.

The department withheld dashcam footage of the incident for nearly nine months, citing an exception under California law to protect the integrity of the investigation. State law generally requires police agencies to release video and audio recordings involving use of force that results in serious injury within 45 days. Harris explained the extended delay was necessary to complete essential investigative steps, including extensive interviews.

When the video was released last week, it showed two uniformed officers standing near the back of a police SUV inside the parking structure as a patrol cruiser approached. One officer drew his handgun and pointed it at the approaching vehicle before reholstering the weapon. The officers then shared a brief moment of apparent amusement.

The footage does not capture the moment inside the vehicle when the shooting occurred. According to Harris, the officer seated in the driver’s seat drew his department-issued handgun and pointed it at the other officer, resulting in an accidental discharge. The bullet went through the vehicle’s windshield and struck the officer standing outside, who sustained serious injuries but has since recovered.

Following the new witness statement submitted on Sunday, the police chief authorized the reopening of the investigation and placed additional officers on leave pending its outcome. Harris emphasized the department’s commitment to treating the matter with the utmost seriousness.

The department has forwarded its criminal investigation to the district attorney’s office and notified the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training. Alatorre has not responded to requests for comment.

Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo condemned the incident as unacceptable and expressed support for the chief’s handling of the case, affirming that appropriate disciplinary measures have been taken.

Harris described the officers’ actions as regrettable and falling short of department standards, underscoring the city’s resolve to uphold professional conduct within its police force.