Standoff Leads to Death in Palmdale Home

Authorities have identified Alex Betancourt, 69, as the deceased man found in a Palmdale home during a welfare check that led to a standoff with sheriff's deputies. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department's Special Enforcement Bureau responded to the residence on Oxford Drive after a pool maintenance worker discovered a bloody scene. Following hours of tactical operations, a suspect was taken into custody, although no details about the suspect or the circumstances surrounding Betancourt's death have been released. The standoff began around 1:50 p.m. Saturday and lasted until approximately 9:00 p.m., during which nearby residents were evacuated for safety. Homicide detectives are currently investigating the case and are encouraging anyone with information to contact the Sheriff's Homicide Bureau. A post-mortem examination is pending to determine the cause of death.