Officer Killed During Borderline Shooting Died From Friendly Fire

sheriff's sergeant killed by friendly fire

A Ventura County Sheriff's sergeant who was killed during last month's shooting at the Borderline Bar & Grill in Thousand Oaks died as the result of friendly fire, it was revealed today by authorities.

Ventura County Sheriff Bill Ayub described the situation inside the bar and grill on Nov. 7 as a "combat situation" and chaotic. 

An investigation of the shooting revealed that Sergeant Ron Helus was shot five times by the gunman, but Ayub told the media today that the sergeant had been protected by his bullet-proof vest. 

A sixth shot fired by a CHP officer proved to be fatal after it struck the sergeant's heart. 

Sheriff Ayub told reporters that the blame lay with the gunman who entered the Borderline Grill, and that he alone bears responsibility for Helus' death. 

Twelve people were fatally shot and many more wounded after a gunman entered the Borderline bar last month and opened fire. He turned the gun on himself. 

A motive for the shooting has not been uncovered. 

Photo: Getty Images

borderline bar and grill update

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