Overview:
A Palauan man was fatally shot by police in Susanville, California, after a domestic violence incident escalated into an armed standoff involving three children. Authorities have ruled the officers’ actions lawful following a review of body camera footage.
Body camera footage shows armed confrontation with officers; three children rescued unharmed as authorities rule shooting lawful
By: L.N. Reklai
KOROR, Palau — A Palauan man was fatally shot by police in Susanville, California, following a domestic violence incident that escalated into an armed confrontation involving three young children, according to reports and police body camera footage reviewed by authorities.
Ngirasiau “Derek” Sikong died from gunshot wounds after officers responded to a domestic violence call on May 6, 2026. Family members had reportedly contacted police due to Sikong’s erratic behavior and concerns that he posed a danger to his children.
Body camera footage captured Sikong dangling a 2-year-old toddler outside a second-story apartment window while shouting at responding officers. The footage also showed him wielding a machete, which he repeatedly struck against a window.
According to reports, Sikong continued confronting officers while holding the machete. Police officer David Lee, whose body camera recorded the encounter, fired shots after Sikong put the toddler down and pointed the weapon downward during the standoff.
During the incident, a Palauan woman inside the apartment could be heard alternately pleading with Sikong to stop and screaming as if she was being attacked.
Officers subsequently forced entry into the apartment. Body camera footage reportedly showed Sikong swinging the machete at one of the officers as they entered, prompting additional gunfire from police. The officer suffered a laceration on his back as a result of being struck by the machete.
Authorities said Sikong died at the scene despite efforts to save him. Three children, ages 2, 4 and 8, were rescued from the apartment unharmed.
Following a review of the body camera footage and the circumstances surrounding the shooting, the district attorney determined that the officers acted lawfully. No criminal charges will be filed against the officers involved.
Based on audio captured during the incident and statements from family members, Sikong was reportedly using methamphetamine, commonly known as “ice,” at the time of the confrontation.
The incident remains a tragic case that has drawn attention within the Palauan community both in the United States and in Palau.
