Slain Los Angeles Deputy's Fiancee Speaks of Her Heartbreak as Suspect Charged

The fiancee of Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy Ryan Clinkunbroomer, who was fatally shot on Saturday, September 16, remembered him and spoke of her heartbreak at a press conference held on Wednesday.

Clinkunbroomer was shot while sitting in his patrol car in Palmdale, California.

A suspect, Kevin Cataneo Salazar, 29, was arrested at an address in Palmdale on September 18.

Cataneo Salazar has pleaded not guilty to the charge of murdering Clinkunbroomer, by reason of insanity.

Brittany Lindsey, Clinkunbroomer’s fiancee, described him on Wednesday as “the best guy" she’d ever met. “Everyone who met him or knew him loved him. I’m so happy I was able to love him, but it was not long enough," she said.

Lindsey and Clinkunbroomer had gotten engaged just four days before he was killed, Fox LA said. Credit: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department via Storyful

Video transcript

BRITTANY LINDSEY: My name is Brittany Lindsey. I'm Ryan's fiancee. B-R-I-T-T-A-N-Y L-I-N-D-S-E-Y.

(SOBBING) First of all, I want to thank each and every officer from the bottom of my heart. Thank you for everything you've done for our family the last few days. I also want to say thank you to anyone that helped solve this case.

Ryan was the best guy I've ever met. He was so thoughtful and caring. And everyone who met him or knew him loved him. I'm so happy I was able to love him. It was not long enough.

I couldn't wait to start our lives together. We were just engaged, planning to get married and start a family. Ryan, I miss you, and I love you so much. I don't know how to live without you, and I didn't ever want to imagine it.

Now look down on all your brothers and sisters in blue. Keep them safe so this never happens to anyone else. Protect them and watch over them as they continue to serve their community. Until we meet again.