- 15-year-old victim caught in crossfire during 41-mile police pursuit
- Investigators found 21 deputies fired 65+ rounds in 2022 incident
- Toxicology reports reveal father had multiple drugs in system
- State AG recommends updated bodycam policies post-shooting
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department faced renewed scrutiny this week as state investigators concluded their review of a fatal 2022 highway confrontation. Prosecutors determined deputies acted within legal boundaries when returning fire against Anthony Graziano, a domestic violence suspect, and his teenage daughter Savannah during a high-speed chase along Interstate 15.
Bodycam footage analysis reveals critical details about the 66-kilometer pursuit that ended in dual fatalities. Investigators confirmed the father-daughter pair possessed multiple firearms, with ballistic evidence showing weapons discharge from both passenger and driver positions. This finding complicates earlier assumptions about Savannah's role, particularly given her tactical gear and firearms training history.
Forensic reports paint a troubling picture of the lead-up to the incident. Anthony Graziano tested positive for four controlled substances following the shooting, including methamphetamine and prescription opioids. This toxicology profile aligns with witness accounts of erratic driving behavior preceding the fatal encounter.
The California DOJ report highlights systemic challenges in active-shooter scenarios. Investigators noted that 87% of responding deputies had less than five years' field experience, raising questions about tactical decision-making during extended pursuits. This finding mirrors 2021 data from Los Angeles County showing similar experience gaps in high-stakes incidents.
Legal experts point to the case's implications for use-of-force protocols statewide. While prosecutors deemed deputies' actions legally justified under current guidelines, community advocates argue the outcome underscores needed reforms. A 2023 Stanford Law Review study suggests California's lethal force authorization thresholds remain 23% higher than national averages.
Bodycam policy changes implemented post-incident now require San Bernardino deputies to activate recording devices during all vehicle pursuits. This reform follows patterns seen in Sacramento and San Diego counties, where dashboard camera usage reduced civilian complaints by 41% according to 2024 California Police Chiefs Association data.
The Graziano case continues to influence domestic violence response strategies across Southern California. Family court records reveal three prior protective orders filed by Tracy Martinez, the murdered mother, between 2019-2021. These revelations have spurred legislative proposals for integrated firearm seizure protocols in domestic abuse cases.
