Mariposa Sheriff’s Deputy Continues Recovery

Mariposa, CA — The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office has released the name of the deputy that is recovering after being involved in a shootout last week. Deputy Rudy Mirelez is a 10-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office. He was shot both in the face and torso, and he remains in critical condition at a hospital in Modesto.

Deputies were involved in a vehicle pursuit of Merced resident Brian Ballasch during the early morning hours of October 1st. It ended on Highway 49, just outside of the town of Mariposa. Ballasch proceeded to open fire against the deputies. Ballasch was also struck by gunfire, but was treated locally in Mariposa County. The Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office notes that Ballasch is a US Marine Corp Veteran that is suffering from PTSD. He has been charged with attempted murder on a peace officer. The investigation into the shootout is ongoing.