The Gambian community in California is mourning the tragic death of Abdou Rahman Nyan, a Gambian-American U.S. veteran, who was shot and killed by police officers in Santa Barbara County last week.

According to the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office (SBCSO), the incident occurred around 2:39 p.m. at Ralph’s grocery store on the 5100 block of Hollister Avenue in Goleta, near Los Angeles.

Deputies said they attempted to apprehend Nyan following what police described as an “assault with a deadly weapon,” which led to gunfire.

“Deputies contacted the suspect (Abdou Rahman) and attempted to apprehend him. There was an altercation, and the suspect was shot. Deputies were not physically harmed. Abdou Rahman was pronounced deceased at the scene,” said SBCSO spokesperson Raquel Zick.

The Sheriff’s Office has since launched an investigation into what it described as “a shooting incident involving a deadly weapon that turned into an officer-involved shooting.”

However, eyewitness accounts reported by Santa Barbara’s News Channel 3 present a different version of events.

Witnesses said the ordeal began outside the store when Nyan and another customer were involved in a confrontation with a white man holding a large kitchen knife while a dog appeared to defend him.

The struggle reportedly moved inside the store, where frightened shoppers fled and called 911.

Moments later, gunfire erupted, leaving one man dead and another injured.

According to Nyan’s family, he was shot six times by police officers. The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the two deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on administrative leave pending investigation.

The devastating news reached Nyan’s family, including his mother Amie Noho, a respected member of the Gambian community, nearly a week after the incident.

Members of the Gambian diaspora in California have expressed shock and sorrow, describing Nyan as a gentle and dedicated neighbour, a professional, and a proud serviceman.

Many have called for a transparent and impartial investigation, including the release of body camera footage.

Relatives said Nyan was deeply committed to serving his country and community, and they are demanding justice and accountability for his death.