Police: Man called Fresno officers before confrontation

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno police say a man shot and killed by police last week called officers to his house before he was fatally shot.

Investigators say Elias Monge called 911 to report someone shooting in his driveway. But police claim he went out and started firing to draw them in.

The police chief says three calls were made that morning, the first from Elias Monge before he fired two shots. Another call was from a roommate and the last call was from a neighbor.

Fresno police still have many questions about what was going on inside Elias Monge's mind the morning he lured police to his home. Chief Jerry Dyer says Monge used his cell phone to call 911.

"He appeared to be fairly calm on the phone and very matter of fact and informed the dispatcher that there was a person outside the residence gave the address, and had fired the shotgun into the air," Chief Dyer said.

But police later learned he made the call then stepped outside and fired two rounds.

Action News has learned Monge had been in the Army National Guard for 3 and a half years but he was never deployed overseas. Shortly after the shooting, a representative from the military retrieved his government-issued property.

Investigators say in days leading up to the shooting Monge's roommates said he was depressed, despondent and acting strange, but it's unclear specifically why.

Chief Dyer says Monge's mother was totally caught by surprise by her son's actions.

"I've had the opportunity to speak with her on the phone, incredible family, incredible lady and she was very apologetic for our officers to have to be placed in this position," Chief Dyer said.

Police say once Monge's roommates saw him walk outside with a pistol grip type shotgun, they locked him out. Investigators say several rounds were still left in the gun.

Police say a few weeks ago Monge had some problems with his girlfriend. Toxicology results from the autopsy are still not in.

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