Correctional Officer IV Toamalama Scanlan, aged 46, tragically passed away on October 12, 2021, after succumbing to injuries sustained in a shooting incident that occurred on September 3, 2016. On that fateful day, Scanlan was responding to an active shooter situation in the main lobby of the Fresno County Jail. The assailant, Thong Vang, had entered the lobby and attempted to cut to the front of the visitation line.
When confronted by unarmed officers, Vang produced a handgun and opened fire, striking both Scanlan and another officer, Juanita Davila, in the head. Despite the immediate response from other officers who subdued Vang, Scanlan suffered severe injuries that left him hospitalized for five years until his death.
The incident led to significant legal proceedings. Thong Vang, the shooter, was arrested and charged with multiple counts, including attempted murder. In a court of law, Vang was found guilty and sentenced to 112 years to life in prison. This sentence reflected the gravity of his actions and the impact on the victims and their families. The legal process underscored the severity of the crime and the justice system's response to such violent acts.
Throughout his career, Toamalama Scanlan was known for his dedication and service. He began his career with the Fresno County Probation Department in 1998 and later joined the Fresno County Sheriff's Office in 2006. He was promoted to Correctional Officer IV in 2012 and was a member of the Special Emergency Response Team (SERT). His commitment to his duties and his bravery in the face of danger were widely recognized and respected by his colleagues and the community.
The aftermath of the shooting also brought about changes in the security protocols at the Fresno County Jail. The incident highlighted the risks faced by correctional officers and led to increased measures to ensure their safety. The community mourned the loss of a dedicated officer, and his legacy continues to be honored by those who knew him and worked alongside him.
