Reedley officer in shootout dies

• Share your thoughts and memories about Deputy Joel Wahlenmaier and Reedley officer Javier Behar

Reedley police officer Javier Bejar, one of the victims in Thursday’s officer-involved shooting in Minkler, has died.

Bejar was taken off life support about 5:30 a.m., the Reedley Police Department announced.

Law enforcement officials on Thursday were trying to arrest Minkler resident Ricky Liles, 51, on suspicion of a series of shooting crimes and arson fires. Liles opened fire, killing Fresno County sheriff’s deputy Joel Wahlenmaier, critically injuring Bejar and wounding another law officer before killing himself.

Bejar, 28, of Clovis, joined the Reedley Police Department in September 2005 and was named the department’s officer of the year in 2007. He was awarded a life-saving medal in 2009 and was recognized three years in a row for his efforts against drunken driving.

The Reedley Police Officer’s Association has set up a Javier Bejar Support Fund. Contributions can be made at any Chase bank branch.

The Bejar family has asked that the public not leave items at the Bejar home.

The Fresno Bee