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Up to $6,000 offered for info leading to Gaslamp shooting suspect's arrest

Posted at 4:34 PM, Aug 17, 2017
and last updated 2017-08-17 19:35:31-04

SAN DIEGO (KGTV) - A $6,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the man wanted for shooting an off-duty deputy this month.

Ray Pitoau, 37, is wanted for shooting Jason Philpot, an 11-year veteran of the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, during a scuffle in San Diego's Gaslamp District.

RELATED: Off-duty deputy called a hero after shooting in Gaslamp Quarter

Philpot, who was off-duty during the shooting, was shot three times but survived. Another pedestrian, identified as Vladimir Shvets, was also shot.

San Diego Police said Pitoau approached Philpot and several of his companions -- including two off-duty Escondido police officers -- in the 500 block of Island Avenue just after 1 a.m. on Aug. 7.

RELATED: Gaslamp deputy shooting suspect escapes Spring Valley SWAT standoff

An argument of some sort broke out, leading to Pitoau drawing a gun, according to police. Philpot and Pitoau wrestled over the weapon, leading to Philpot being shot.

Pitoau fled the scene, according to police - who later released surveillance footage of the incident.

RELATED: SDPD to release key evidence in shooting of off-duty deputy in Gaslamp Quarter

Police said Pitoau is considered to be armed and dangerous. He is described as:

  • Samoan male
  • 5’11”, 225 pounds
  • Black hair and brown eyes
  • Has a distinguished “SD” tattoo on the upper right chest.

Anyone with information is asked to call San Diego Police at 619-531-2000 or Crime Stoppers' anonymous tip line at 888-580-8477. Crime Stoppers is offering an $1,000 reward in addition to a $5,000 reward offered by the Deputy Sheriff's Association of San Diego County.