DA Says Man Pleads Guilty in Fatal Shooting of Hayward Police Sgt. Scott Lunger

Alameda County District Attorney announces resolution in case of defendant Mark Estrada, who killed Hayward Police Sgt. Scott Lunger

OAKLAND, CA — The Alameda County District Attorney’s Office announces that today, Defendant Mark Estrada was convicted of Murder, a violation of Penal Code Section 187, in the First Degree for the death of Hayward Police Sgt. Scott Lunger on July 22, 2015.

In addition, Defendant Estrada admitted to the use of the firearm that murdered Sgt. Lunger. He faces 50 years to life in prison. Sentencing is expected to occur on March 18 before Alameda County Superior Court Judge C. Don Clay.

“We are pleased that the defendant has been held accountable for the violent murder of Hayward Police Sergeant Scott Lunger,” said District Attorney Nancy O’Malley. “Sergeant Lunger’s tragic death shook the Hayward Police Department and community. Police officers put themselves in harm’s way every day while working to keep our communities safe. It is imperative that we diligently pursue convictions and appropriate sentences for those who injure or kill police officers in the line of duty. We hope that this conviction and his sentencing will bring a sense of closure and justice for Sergeant Lunger’s family, friends, his law enforcement colleagues and the community.”

On July 22, 2015 just after 3 a.m., Sgt. Lunger was on patrol in Hayward when he saw a Chevy Silverado truck driving erratically near Myrtle and Lion streets. He decided to stop the truck.

Before Sgt. Lunger approached the vehicle, another officer arrived as backup. As Sgt. Lunger approached the truck, Estrada fired three shots, striking Sgt. Lunger in the head and leg. The other officer returned fire as Estrada fled in the truck. Estrada was arrested later the same day. Sgt. Lunger was a father of two daughters and had been on the force for 15 years.

Today’s plea agreement was entered one week before opening statements in the case were set to begin. The case was in trial in 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic struck, resulting in a mistrial.